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Edestus heinrichi

SKU

I03

Out of stock

$495.00

Overview

A very rare, Top Quality Edestus heinrichi shark tooth, from Herrin, Illinois. An October Fossil of the Month. This is a Paleozoic shark that lived in swamps that our now underground coal deposits. Two crown specimen. Excellent preservation and serrations. Extra large root size! The Edestus shark would have an upper and lower tooth whorl that are vertically opposed. Research showed that they could use their opposing teeth in a scissor-like motion to cut prey. It is the first animal to cut vertically. A very strange looking and unique acting shark. Shark recreation image is credited to Julio Lacerdo. These rare teeth are Pennsylvanian age from Illinois. Crown tops are repaired. Authenticity guaranteed.

I03 SIZE: 1-1/2" (Root length 6-1/4")

Adding 11 Edestus shark specimens in October 2021. Link to Edestus shark.

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The Edestus heinrichi or Edestus minor, the Coal shark or "scissor shark" tooth, are two rare Pennsylvanian age sharks found in an underground coal mines in Illinois. Edestus heinrichi tooth exhibits a unique broad symmetrical triangular crown with huge serrations. Whereas, the Edestus minor tooth exhibits a more narrow asymmetrical triangular crown with large serrations. The roots are also quite unique as they appear as long arms with the crown at the end. The roots would stack and interlock to form a "tooth whorl" which are placed vertically at the center line of the upper and lower jaws. A whorl could include 5-10 or more crowns. A very strange arrangement of teeth which would be used to slice prey. These teeth are well preserved. These teeth are from the Anna Shale Fm. (Carbondale Group) - approx. 300 million years in age. It is always difficult locating these rare teeth.