Carcharodon auriculatus Shark Tooth

Description: This is a fine example of a tooth from the extinct shark Carcharodon (Carcharochles) auriculatus. These sharks are thought to be progenitors of what was to be Carcharodon (or Charcharocles) megalodon. Notice the sidecusps, a remnant of its descent from Otodus obliquus. Teeth are highly variable in color, a consequence of the minerals in the water that formed the deposits. This is a superb and large example of this species. Note the excellent serration, and glossy color.