sedimentary

Mosasaur Jaw Fossil in Matrix

Mosasaurus (family Mosasauridae) in Phosphate Sandstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5 (fossilized enamel/bone) vs 2-3 (matrix); Color: Brown/tan teeth, cream bone, beige matrix; Luster: Vitreous on teeth, earthy on matrix; Structure: Conical teeth with distinct roots.

Hardness: 5 (fossilized enamel/bone) vs 2-3 (matrix)
Color: Brown/tan teeth, cream bone, beige matrix
Luster: Vitreous on teeth, earthy on matrix

Identified June 9, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 (fossilized enamel/bone) vs 2-3 (matrix); Color: Brown/tan teeth, cream bone, beige matrix; Luster: Vitreous on teeth, earthy on matrix; Structure: Conical teeth with distinct roots.

Formation & geological history

Formed during the Late Cretaceous period (approx. 66-70 million years ago) in shallow marine environments where sediment quickly buried the organic remains of marine reptiles.

Uses & applications

High value for fossil collecting, educational museum displays, and scientific study of prehistoric marine ecosystems.

Geological facts

Mosasaurs were apex predators of the Cretaceous seas, not dinosaurs but aquatic lizards closely related to modern monitor lizards and snakes.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct conical, slightly curved teeth and fragmented jaw bone embedded in a sandy phosphatic matrix. Often found in the Oulad Abdoun Basin of Morocco.