Description
Discover a genuine Enchodus fossil fish tooth from the world-renowned phosphate beds of Khouribga, Morocco. Dating back to the Late Cretaceous Period (approx. 70–66 million years ago), this striking specimen represents one of the most fascinating marine predators to have lived during the age of dinosaurs. Known for its formidable fang-like teeth, Enchodus was a swift and agile hunter that roamed the ancient Tethys Sea, preying upon smaller fish and cephalopods.
Each specimen measures approximately 30–60mm and has been carefully selected for its excellent preservation and clarity of detail. The accompanying photograph shows a representative example of the actual fossil you will receive. Scale cube = 1cm. Every fossil is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing that it is a 100% genuine, natural specimen – never a replica or reproduction.
Geological Context and Formation
These Enchodus teeth were recovered from the Phosphate Deposits of Khouribga, Morocco, one of the most important Late Cretaceous marine fossil localities in the world. The sedimentary layers belong to the Maastrichtian Stage of the Upper Cretaceous, representing the final era before the mass extinction event that ended the reign of the dinosaurs.
The phosphate beds of Khouribga formed in a shallow marine environment within the ancient Tethys Ocean, a warm and nutrient-rich sea teeming with life. Over millions of years, the remains of marine organisms accumulated and were transformed into mineral-rich phosphates, preserving an exceptional diversity of marine fossils including mosasaurs, sharks, rays, and fish such as Enchodus.
Fossil Details and Morphological Features
Enchodus belonged to the extinct family Enchodontidae, within the order Aulopiformes (related to today’s lizardfish). Often referred to as the “Saber-Toothed Herring,” Enchodus was not actually related to herrings but earned its nickname due to its long, curved, dagger-like teeth that projected from its jaws.
The tooth exhibits the classic Enchodus morphology — a slender, conical crown with a sharp point and subtle longitudinal striations. Its glossy enamel surface and tapered root structure are characteristic of its adaptation for gripping slippery prey. These teeth often display slight curvature, an evolutionary design to pierce and hold fast-moving marine animals.
Specimens from this region are often found in a phosphatic matrix, which helps preserve fine surface textures. Many collectors prize these fossils for their aesthetic appearance, scientific importance, and historical significance within Cretaceous marine ecosystems.
Scientific and Collector Significance
Fossils of Enchodus offer valuable insights into the evolution of predatory fish and the structure of Late Cretaceous marine food webs. The genus Enchodus had a global distribution, with species found in Europe, North America, and Africa, attesting to its adaptability and dominance in prehistoric seas.
Collectors appreciate Enchodus teeth for their distinctive fang-like form, which makes them striking display pieces and excellent educational specimens for teaching paleontology, evolution, and marine ecology. Their durability and natural beauty also make them popular additions to fossil collections and unique geological gifts.
Authenticity and Presentation
- Origin: Khouribga, Morocco
- Period: Late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian Stage)
- Species: Enchodus sp.
- Family: Enchodontidae
- Order: Aulopiformes
- Size Range: 30–60mm (see photo for scale)
- Condition: Genuine fossil tooth, naturally preserved
- Certification: Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Photography: The image shows an example of the actual fossil type you will receive
Each fossil is carefully chosen to represent the finest examples from this remarkable locality. Whether for educational study, display, or personal collection, this Enchodus tooth captures the essence of ancient oceanic life from over 65 million years ago – a tangible piece of Earth’s deep history preserved in stone.
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