fossil

Megalodon Shark Tooth

Otodus megalodon

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale (enamel and phosphate/silica replacement); Color: Dark gray to black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous/microcrystalline mineralized tooth structure.

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale (enamel and phosphate/silica replacement)
Color: Dark gray to black
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified August 1, 2026More fossil →

Explore Megalodon Shark Tooth in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale (enamel and phosphate/silica replacement); Color: Dark gray to black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous/microcrystalline mineralized tooth structure.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of fossilization where minerals replace the original biological material of teeth shed by Otodus megalodon during the Miocene and Pliocene epochs (approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Prized by fossil collectors, used in display pieces, and studied by paleontologists to understand prehistoric marine ecosystems.

Geological facts

Otodus megalodon was one of the largest and most powerful apex predators in vertebrate history, growing up to 15-20 meters in length.

Field identification & locations

Found worldwide in marine sedimentary deposits, particularly along coastal areas, riverbeds, and ocean floors where Miocene-Pliocene strata are exposed. Identified by its massive triangular shape, serrated edges (often worn down), and prominent V-shaped root (bourlette).