Worn Crow Shark Tooth
Squalicorax sp. (likely Squalicorax kaupi or Squalicorax pristodontus) • Body fossil, Vertebrate (Chondrichthyes)
Geological Period
Late Cretaceous
Estimated Age
Approximately 83 to 66 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization with subsequent mechanical beach/river wear
Condition Assessment
Fair; the specimen is heavily weathered and water-worn, resulting in the loss of sharp serrations and fine enameloid detail. The root is partially missing or eroded.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Anacoracidae, Genus: Squalicorax
Morphological Description
A triangular, compressed shark tooth crown. The specimen shows a distinct distally curved apex and a broad base. While the serrations are largely worn away due to water transport (tumbled), the characteristic 'crow' curved silhouette is visible. Small nutrient pores are visible on the root/crown transition area.
Rock Matrix
None; isolated specimen with phosphate-rich mineralization
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Selma Group (USA), the phosphate beds of Morocco, or the chalk beds of Western Europe. Likely a beach or river find based on high degree of erosion.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 cm to 2.0 cm in height; typical for mid-sized Squalicorax specimens.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$1.00 - $5.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$5.00 - $10.00 USD (typically sold in bulk lots for this grade)
Rarity Assessment
Common; Squalicorax teeth are among the most abundant shark fossils in Cretaceous marine deposits.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of apex marine predators in Cretaceous marine ecosystems. Squalicorax is known for scavenging behavior, including evidence of feeding on dinosaur carcasses washed out to sea.
Preparation Recommendations
No mechanical preparation needed. Rinse with distilled water to remove salts if found on a beach. Store in a padded gem jar or plastic bag to prevent further abrasion.
Notable Features
The high degree of rounded, polished wear suggests it spent significant time in a high-energy environment like a surf zone or river bed after eroding out of its primary matrix.