Sand Tiger Shark Tooth (Fossilized)
Phylum: Chordata; Class: Chondrichthyes; Order: Lamniformes; Family: Odontaspididae; Genus: Carcharias; Species: taurus · Odontaspididae (Sand Tiger Shark family) · Fossilized Tooth (Vertebrate Fossil, not a mollusk shell); Shape: Elongate triangular with lateral cusps
Species
Carcharias taurus (fossilized)
Shell Type
Fossilized Tooth (Vertebrate Fossil, not a mollusk shell); Shape: Elongate triangular with lateral cusps
Family
Odontaspididae (Sand Tiger Shark family)
Size
Approximately 12-15mm (0.5 inches). This is a juvenile or smaller lateral specimen, as adult teeth can reach 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Solid charcoal black to jet black. The color is the result of permineralization, where minerals from the surrounding sediment have replaced the original bone/enamel material over millions of years.
Rarity
Common (found regularly on fossil-rich beaches)
Habitat
Coastal marine environments. While the modern species inhabits shallow sandy-bottom waters, fossilized teeth like this are often found in lag deposits or redeposited in beach swash zones.
Geographic Range
Globally distributed; very common on the East Coast of the USA (specifically Florida, Venice Beach, and the Carolinas) and the North Sea coasts.
Description
A striking fossilized tooth featuring a narrow, sharp main cusp. The surface is smooth and polished by tidal action. It exhibits the characteristic L-shape seen in lateral teeth, with a visible root structure although partially eroded.
Key Features
Narrow, slender main blade; presence of small lateral 'cusplets' at the base of the crown (though worn in this specimen); distinct lingual curvature; L-shaped root geometry.
Collector Value
Minimal monetary value (typically $0.25 - $1.00), but high sentimental value for amateur beachcombers. Pristine, large teeth with intact roots and sharp cusplets are more desirable.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; the tip is mostly intact, but the root is significantly weathered and the lateral cusplets are worn down, common for beach-found fossils.
Interesting Facts
Sand tiger sharks are unique as they gulp air into their stomachs to maintain neutral buoyancy. Their teeth are replaced constantly throughout their life, which is why millions of fossilized examples are found worldwide.
Ecological Role
Apex predator; as a fossil, it serves as a paleo-indicator of past marine environments and sea level changes.
Similar Species
Lemon Shark (Negaprion brevirostris) which has a broader base and no cusplets; Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas) which is broader and serrated.
Beach Finding Tips
Search the 'shell hash' lines at low tide. Look for small, shiny black triangles that catch the light differently than wet shells or stones. A sifting screen is highly effective.