Natural History
Natural History
Megalodon Shark Tooth — Georgia
Early Pliocene (approx. 5 million years ago), Georgia
No reserve
Auction Closed
July 26, 08:15 PM GMT
Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Megalodon Shark Tooth — Georgia
Otodus megalodon
Early Pliocene (approx. 5 million years ago)
Georgia
4⅔ x 3⅜ inches (11.8 x 8.70 cm). Base not included.
This nicely preserved fossil is intact, conserving the characteristic dental features identifying this gigantic extinct shark — think enamel, fine serrations, and large roots. The densely mineralized tooth is complete with virtually unworn serrations, enamel, and tip. Minor flaking is visible on the base of the enamel edge. The broad U-shaped fork between the roots suggests that the original placement of this tooth was in the upper jaws.
Otodus megalodon (formerly known as Carcharodon megalodon) was a giant prehistoric shark that roamed the open seas, armed with huge, serrated, razor-sharp teeth. The largest predatory shark ever to have lived, Otodus megalodon grew up to three times the size of its closest living relative, the modern great white shark. Because estimates are based solely on teeth and fragmentary vertebral remains, upper size limits of this apex carnivore range from 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 m) in length, with estimates weights ranging between 40,000 and 120,000 pounds (18 to 54 metric tons).
Regardless of exact bodily dimensions, Otodus megalodon ranks among the largest predators ever to grace the face of the Earth. With a name meaning "big tooth" and a bite force more than double that of Tyrannosaurus rex, it is no wonder that Otodus megalodon is considered the greatest predatory fish of all time.