Spinosaurid Tooth
cf. Spinosaurus aegyptiacus • Vertebrate body fossil (isolated theropod tooth)
Geological Period
Cretaceous
Estimated Age
95 to 100 million years old (Late Cretaceous, Cenomanian stage)
Preservation Type
Permineralization and replacement with iron oxides/hydroxides, giving the tooth its characteristic reddish-brown coloration.
Condition Assessment
Good. The crown is largely intact with clear surface ornamentation, though exhibiting wear at the tip and some surface abrasion and root loss typical of river-transported isolated teeth from this formation.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Reptilia, Order: Saurischia, Family: Spinosauridae, Genus: cf. Spinosaurus
Morphological Description
Conical, robust, non-serrated tooth crown with distinct longitudinal fluting or ridging running from the base towards the apex, characteristic of piscivorous theropods. The cross-section is sub-circular to oval, lacking the lateral compression seen in many other carnivorous dinosaur teeth.
Rock Matrix
Matrix-free isolated tooth, though typically originating from poorly consolidated sandstone and clayey matrix of fluvial deposits.
Formation & Location
Kem Kem Group / Tegana Formation, southeastern Morocco
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 cm in length, consistent with mid-sized shed teeth from the taxon.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $70 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $80 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common. Isolated Spinosaurus teeth are abundantly found in the Kem Kem beds of Morocco and are widely available on the fossil market.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of the presence and distribution of giant semi-aquatic predatory dinosaurs (Spinosaurids) in the extensive river delta systems of Cretaceous North Africa, contributing to our understanding of apex predators in Cretaceous ecosystems.
Preparation Recommendations
No extensive preparation needed as the specimen is clean. Store in a stable, dry environment away from excessive humidity to prevent any matrix flaking if micro-matrix is present, and handle with care.
Notable Features
Well-defined longitudinal enamel ridges (flutes) running along the length of the crown, and a rich reddish-brown coloration indicative of the iron-rich preservation environment of the Kem Kem beds.