fossil

Fossilized Shark Tooth in Matrix

Otodus obliquus (Chondrichthyes: Lamniformes)

Hardness: 5 (tooth enamel/apatite); Color: Tan crown with creamy white to yellowish root; Luster: Vitreous on crown, earthy on matrix; Structure: Triangular blade with lateral cusplets; Matrix: Calcareous sedimentary rock.

Hardness: 5 (tooth enamel/apatite)
Color: Tan crown with creamy white to yellowish root
Luster: Vitreous on crown, earthy on matrix

Identified July 20, 2026More fossil →

Explore Fossilized Shark Tooth in Matrix in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed during the Paleocene to Eocene epochs (approx. 40-60 million years ago) in marine environments. The specimen was preserved through permineralization in ocean floor sediments.

Uses & applications

Scientific research, paleontological study, educational tools, and highly popular as collector specimens.

Geological facts

Otodus obliquus was a massive prehistoric mackerel shark and is considered an ancestor of the Carcharodon megalodon. These teeth are frequently found in the phosphate mines of Morocco.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct triangular shape and presence of small 'cusplets' at the base of the crown. Commonly found in Morocco, USA (East Coast), and Belgium. Collectors should look for intact roots and sharp enamel.

Other fossil specimens

See all

Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

fossil

Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

sedimentary

Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Limestone

Fossiliferous Calcilutite / Biomicrite

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Limestone

Biogenic Limestone with Brachiopod/Crinoid fragments

sedimentary

Horn Coral (Rugose Coral)

Order Rugosa (extinct)

fossil