Sand Tiger Shark Tooth (Fossilized)
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Odontaspididae, Genus: Carcharias, Species: Carcharias taurus · Odontaspididae (Sand Tiger Shark family) · Fossilized Vertebrate Tooth (Tusk-like morphology)
Species
Carcharias taurus (Confidence level: 85%)
Shell Type
Fossilized Vertebrate Tooth (Tusk-like morphology)
Family
Odontaspididae (Sand Tiger Shark family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches in length. This is a smaller specimen for this species, likely a juvenile or a tooth from the side/posterior of the jaw.
Color & Pattern
Uniform charcoal black to dark grey. The color is the result of permineralization (fossilization), where minerals from the Myrtle Beach sediments have replaced the original tooth material. The surface appears smooth and slightly lustrous.
Rarity
Common (Frequent beach find in Myrtle Beach, SC)
Habitat
The living species inhabits sub-tidal zones, sandy coastal waters, and rocky reefs. As a fossil, it is found in the sediment layers of the Atlantic continental shelf.
Geographic Range
Globally in temperate and tropical waters; found in the fossil record along the U.S. East Coast from New Jersey to Florida. Highly common in the Miocene/Pliocene deposits of South Carolina.
Description
A slender, dagger-like fossil tooth. It features a narrow, slightly recurved main cusp and a wide, flattened rectangular root. The specimen shows the characteristic 'T-shape' or 'Y-shape' posture typical of the Odontaspididae family.
Key Features
Narrow, elongated central cusp; smooth enameloid lacking serrations; a distinct wide root with a central notch (nutrient groove) visible; presence of small lateral denticles (side cusps) which appear worn on this specimen.
Collector Value
Minimal monetary value ($1-$5) due to its abundance in the region. However, it is highly desirable for amateur beachcombers as a 'souvenir' of the Pee Dee region's geological history.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The main cusp is intact, but the lateral denticles (side points) appear heavily water-worn or broken. The root is mostly complete but rounded by wave action. Overall collectibility: Good for a personal beach find.
Interesting Facts
Sand Tigers are unique because they gulp air at the surface to maintain neutral buoyancy. Their teeth are designed for grasping slippery prey like fish rather than sawing through meat. A single shark can lose thousands of teeth in its lifetime.
Ecological Role
As an apex predator, the Sand Tiger shark regulates fish populations. As a fossil, it serves as an indicator of paleo-oceanic temperatures and ancient sea levels.
Similar Species
Lemon Shark (Negaprion brevirostris) which has a wider base and no lateral denticles, or Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas) which is broader and serrated.
Beach Finding Tips
Search the 'shell line' at low tide, particularly after a storm. Look for small, shiny black triangles amidst broken shell fragments. Using a sand sifter near the water's edge in Myrtle Beach is highly effective.
Notes
Myrtle Beach in SC, this is a shark tooth but can you tell me what shark it is from?