Enchodus Tooth Segment or Squalicorax Tooth Fragment (Incomplete)
cf. Enchodus sp. (Saber-toothed herring) or cf. Squalicorax (Crow Shark) fragment • Body fossil; vertebrate fish/shark remains
Geological Period
Cretaceous (Late Cretaceous)
Estimated Age
66 to 100 million years
Preservation Type
Phosphatization and replacement by minerals, likely hydroxyapatite or similar dark phosphate minerals typical of marine lag deposits.
Condition Assessment
Fair; the specimen is an incomplete fragment or heavily worn partial tooth, missing the distal tip or root structure.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes or Actinopterygii
Morphological Description
Elongated, dark, lustrous specimen with prominent vertical striations and ridges along the surface. Cylindrical to semi-oval cross-section, showing signs of water-wear or rolling. The texture represents the serrated edge or the root-to-crown transition of a marine predator tooth.
Rock Matrix
None present (loose specimen), but originates from phosphate-rich marl or chalk typical of the Phosphate Beds or Selma Group.
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Oulad Abdoun Basin (Morocco) or the Gulf Coastal Plain (USA, e.g., Mississippi/Alabama).
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 2-3 cm in length, within the standard size range for fragmentary tooth material of Cretaceous predatory fish.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$5 - $15 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $20 USD (usually sold in bulk lots)
Rarity Assessment
Common; these fragments are extremely abundant in Cretaceous marine deposits globally.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of Late Cretaceous marine trophic levels and indicates a high-energy depositional environment where smaller skeletal elements accumulate.
Preparation Recommendations
Requires minimal preparation; mild cleaning with a soft brush and stabilization with B-72 if fragile. Store in a padded gem jar.
Notable Features
High vitreous luster and distinct costae (ribbing) which are diagnostic for identifying fragmented marine vertebrate remains in phosphate bioliths.