Fossilized Shark Tooth (Eroded)
cf. Otodus (Carcharocles) megalodon or Carcharodon hastalis (Broad-toothed Mako) • Body fossil; Vertebrate; Chondrichthian dental element
Geological Period
Neogene (likely Miocene or Pliocene)
Estimated Age
2.5 to 23 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization with significant secondary water-worn abrasion
Condition Assessment
Poor/Fair; heavily worn, missing root structure, and lacking enameloid luster/serrations.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Otodontidae or Lamnidae
Morphological Description
Sub-triangular shape with a distinct distal lean. The specimen shows a heavily weathered lingual face and missing root lobes. The crown lacks sharp serrations due to significant hydraulic transport and abrasion, resulting in a pebbled/sandy surface texture.
Rock Matrix
None attached; specimen appears to be 'loose' or ex-situ. Likely originally from a phosphate-rich marine lag deposit or Miocene sandstone.
Formation & Location
Likely Atlantic Coastal Plain (e.g., Calvert Formation, MD or Hawthorn Group, FL) or similar global marine deposits.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 20-35mm in height; small to medium for Megatooth sharks, typical for adult Lamnids.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $15.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $20.00 USD (as part of a bulk study lot)
Rarity Assessment
Common; such eroded teeth are frequently found in beach wash and river gravels.
Scientific Significance
Limited due to lack of stratigraphic context and heavy erosion; however, it serves as an indicator of Neogene marine paleo-environments and predator distribution.
Preparation Recommendations
No further physical preparation needed; soak in distilled water to desalt if found in marine environment; store in a dry, padded container.
Notable Features
The specimen exhibits 'river-worn' or 'beach-worn' characteristics where the diagnostic features like the Bourlette and serrations have been smoothed away by environmental forces.