Majungasaurus crenatissimus Dinosaur Tooth Fossil Cretaceous Madagascar Genuine Specimen with Certificate

Overview

This exceptional Majungasaurus crenatissimus Dinosaur Tooth Fossil originates from the Maevarano Formation, Cretaceous Period, collected near Berivotra Village, Madagascar. It represents one of the most iconic carnivorous dinosaurs from the Late Cretaceous of Gondwana. The specimen shown in the photograph is the exact fossil you will receive, and a 1cm scale cube is included for accurate sizing reference—please see the photo for full measurements.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come complete with a Certificate of Authenticity. This specimen has been carefully selected for its scientific value, preservation, and visual appeal, offering a rare opportunity to own a genuine relic from one of Madagascar’s most famous dinosaur-bearing formations.

Geological and Palaeontological Context

The Maevarano Formation in northwestern Madagascar dates to the Late Cretaceous Period (Maastrichtian Stage, approximately 70–66 million years ago). During this time, Madagascar was already an isolated landmass, supporting a highly specialised fauna that evolved independently from other parts of Gondwana. The deposits consist mainly of sandstones, siltstones, and mudstones, representing a fluvial floodplain environment with intermittent channels and seasonal flooding.

Fossils from this formation are exceptionally well-preserved due to rapid burial in fine sediments during flooding events. Alongside dinosaurs, the Maevarano beds have yielded fossils of crocodilians, turtles, birds, and mammals, painting a detailed picture of the Late Cretaceous ecosystem.

The Berivotra fossil locality, where this specimen was collected, is one of the richest and most studied sites within the formation. It is renowned for producing teeth, bones, and skeletal elements of the predatory Majungasaurus crenatissimus, the apex predator of its environment.

The Dinosaur – Majungasaurus crenatissimus

Majungasaurus crenatissimus was a large abelisaurid theropod dinosaur, belonging to the family Abelisauridae within the order Theropoda. It was a bipedal carnivore, reaching lengths of up to 6–7 metres, characterised by a short, blunt snout, thickened skull bones, and a single small horn atop its head.

As a member of the Abelisauridae, Majungasaurus shared similarities with South American relatives such as Carnotaurus, but evolved distinct adaptations due to Madagascar’s long isolation. Its robust jaws and recurved, serrated teeth made it an efficient predator capable of tearing through flesh and bone. Fossil evidence even suggests cannibalistic behaviour, making it one of the few dinosaurs with direct palaeontological evidence of such feeding habits.

The genus was formally described by Depéret in 1896 and later refined with new specimens uncovered by field teams from the Mahajanga Basin Project led by the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

Morphological Features of the Tooth

This Majungasaurus tooth displays the classic characteristics of an abelisaurid predator: a laterally compressed, recurved crown with finely preserved denticles (serrations) along both the anterior and posterior cutting edges. The enamel exhibits subtle surface texture and natural coloration ranging from deep brown to reddish hues, typical of fossilised material from the Maevarano Formation.

The curvature and serration density are diagnostic traits that distinguish Majungasaurus from other theropods, allowing palaeontologists to identify isolated teeth with confidence. Even as a partial or isolated specimen, the anatomy reflects its role as a powerful, flesh-shearing tooth designed for predation.

Scientific Importance and Collectible Value

Majungasaurus is one of the most studied abelisaurid dinosaurs, providing critical insights into Late Cretaceous predator evolution in Gondwana. This tooth is a direct link to that scientific story—a real fragment of one of Earth’s last great carnivores before the end-Cretaceous extinction.

The specimen’s provenance from Berivotra Village, combined with its preparation quality and clear morphology, makes it highly desirable for collectors, educators, and palaeontological enthusiasts. Whether displayed for its aesthetic appeal or studied for its scientific traits, this fossil encapsulates the dynamic history of Madagascar’s prehistoric ecosystems.

Provenance and Authenticity

Each fossil is ethically collected and professionally prepared, ensuring both preservation and authenticity. This piece includes a Certificate of Authenticity, verifying its geological formation, age, and species identification. It serves as a tangible and scientifically verified connection to the Late Cretaceous world of Madagascar, a time when Majungasaurus reigned as the dominant predator across the ancient floodplains of Gondwana.