Globidens sp. (Shell Crushing Mosasaur)
Geological Time: Upper Cretaceous Maastrichtian Stage
Size (25.4mm=1 inch): 24 mm tall, 24 mm wide at base
Fossil Site: Oed Zem, Morocco
Fossil Code: GBT02
Price: $55.00
 Description:
Globidens is one of the most rare of marine reptiles and is characterized
by a massive, bulbous dentition far different from those of most other
mosasaurs. Indeed, the species derives its name from these most unusual
teeth (globidens= globe tooth). Rarity of the taxon coupled with the
unusual dentition  has
prompted a number of theories about life style. Most theories suggest
the dentition was utilized for crushing resistant elements such as
turtles or pelecypods or perhaps for scavenging. Specimens of this
6 meter long mosasaur have been found in North America, Europe, Africa,
the Middle East, and South America. One specimen from South Dakota’s
Pierre Shale has been found with the remains of crushed shells from
the giant Pelecypod Inoceramis within its stomach region, attesting
to its taste for “clam on the half shell”. |
