Shark Tooth fragment (likely Fossilized Tiger Shark or Ground Shark)
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Carcharhiniformes, Family: Carcharhinidae, Genus: Galeocerdo/Carcharhinus · Carcharhinidae (Requiem Shark family) · Fossilized Shark Tooth (Vertebrate remain/mineralized calcium phosphate)
Species
Galeocerdo cuvier (Tiger Shark) or Carcharhinus sp. (Ground Shark)
Shell Type
Fossilized Shark Tooth (Vertebrate remain/mineralized calcium phosphate)
Family
Carcharhinidae (Requiem Shark family)
Size
Approximately 1/2 inch (12-15mm). This is a small, weathered fragment of a larger tooth.
Color & Pattern
Dark brownish-gray to black charcoal color. This dark coloration is typical of phosphatization during the fossilization process in marine sediments, especially in the Southeast US.
Rarity
Common (fossilized fragments are regularly found on Atlantic beaches by observant beachcombers).
Habitat
Found in prehistoric marine sediments; currently found in the intertidal wash or tidal creeks where fossil deposits are eroding.
Geographic Range
Commonly found along the Atlantic coast from New Jersey to Florida; particularly prevalent on beaches in the Carolinas and the Gulf Coast of Florida.
Description
A worn, fossilized shark tooth fragment. It exhibits a distinct triangular shape with a rounded root area. The surface is smooth due to significant wave tumbling and erosion, removing the fine serrations that would have been present on the enameloid surface when fresh.
Key Features
Triangular blade shape, dark mineralized coloration, presence of a thicker root section at the top, and a flattened profile typical of Elasmobranch teeth.
Collector Value
Low monetary value ($0.50 - $1.00) but high sentimental value for hobbyists. These are 'indicator fossils' that suggest the area may contain larger, more intact teeth like Megalodon.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair. The specimen is heavily tumbled, weathered, and missing its tip and sharp serrated edges. It is a 'beach-worn' fossil rather than a 'gem' quality specimen.
Interesting Facts
Sharks can lose thousands of teeth in a lifetime. These fossils are often millions of years old (Miocene or Pliocene epochs) and turned black due to the absorption of minerals like phosphate from the surrounding sediment.
Ecological Role
Apex predator (historic). Fossilized remains provide data on prehistoric marine biodiversity and ancient sea level changes.
Similar Species
Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas) or Lemon Shark (Negaprion brevirostris) teeth, which are similarly triangular but vary in root thickness and curve.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the 'scuff line'—the area of broken shells and pebbles at the tide line. Search for glossy black or dark gray geometric shapes that stand out against the white and tan of broken shells.