This listing features a genuine Squatina prima shark tooth fossil from the Woolwich Beds, dating back to the Paleocene-Eocene transition (~56 million years ago). This rare and well-preserved fossil was discovered in Beltinge, Kent, UK, a significant site for early Paleogene marine fossils.
Squatina prima was an extinct species of angel shark, a group of sharks that still exist today. Angel sharks (Squatiniformes) are distinctive for their flattened, ray-like bodies, which allow them to remain camouflaged on the seafloor as ambush predators. They would lie in wait, partially buried in the sediment, striking swiftly at passing fish and invertebrates.
This species' teeth are adapted for grasping rather than cutting, featuring:
๐น Broad, flattened triangular cuspsโideal for gripping slippery prey
๐น Small lateral cuspletsโhelping to stabilize prey during capture
๐น Strong enamel preservationโshowing fine details despite millions of years of fossilization
This particular specimen exhibits exceptional preservation, retaining its natural structure, detailed enamel, and intact cusplets, making it a highly desirable addition to any fossil collection.
โ Species: Squatina prima
โ Fossil Type: Angel Shark Tooth
โ Geological Formation: Woolwich Beds
โ Geological Age: Paleocene-Eocene (~56 million years old)
โ Location: Beltinge, Kent, UK
โ Authenticity: 100% Genuine Fossil with a Certificate of Authenticity
The Woolwich Beds are a key fossil-bearing deposit from the Paleocene-Eocene boundary, a period of rapid marine ecosystem recovery and diversification following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction. These shallow coastal and estuarine deposits provide critical insights into early shark evolution, capturing a time when modern shark lineages were establishing themselves in prehistoric seas.
๐น Rare British Angel Shark Tooth โ Squatina prima teeth are much rarer than those of more common Eocene shark species.
๐น Exceptional Preservation โ Displays sharp cusp, strong enamel detail, and fully formed lateral cusplets.
๐น Museum-Grade Specimen โ A highly collectible piece, ideal for fossil collectors and educational purposes.
๐น Guaranteed Authenticity โ Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for provenance verification.
๐ Scale Cube = 1cm โ Please see photos for full sizing details.
๐ธ What You See Is What You Get โ The specimen in the photos is the exact fossil you will receive.
This rare and scientifically significant British Eocene angel shark tooth is a must-have for collectors, educators, and paleontology enthusiasts, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric marine life.
๐ Donโt miss out on this exceptional and rare fossil!