Hybodus Shark Tooth Fossil Block Famous Fish Reptile Coprolite Bed Aust Cliff Westbury Formation Penarth Group Upper Triassic UK

Description

Authentic Hybodus Shark Tooth Fossil from Aust Cliff

This listing is for a genuine Hybodus shark tooth fossil, preserved in a natural block from the famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK. Collected from the Westbury Formation of the Penarth Group, this specimen dates back to the Upper Triassic period, around 215–201 million years ago. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate sizing.

The specimen was discovered on 07 April 2025 by our field team members, Alister and Alison. Following careful excavation, it was professionally cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to ensure stability and to highlight the natural detail of the fossil. As with all our fossils, it comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance and genuine nature.

Geological Setting and Age

Aust Cliff is one of Britain’s most important Upper Triassic fossil localities. The Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, is world-renowned for its fossil-rich bone beds that contain the remains of sharks, fish, reptiles, and coprolites. These deposits formed in shallow marine to lagoonal environments, where vertebrate remains were concentrated and preserved within layers of dark shale and limestone.

The conditions that created the Aust Cliff deposits preserved a unique cross-section of life during the late Triassic. They record a period of major ecological transition just before the rise of the great dinosaurs of the Jurassic. Fossils from this site are internationally recognised for their scientific value and historical significance.

Species Information – Hybodus

The fossilised tooth in this block belonged to Hybodus, an extinct genus of sharks that lived from the late Devonian through to the end of the Cretaceous period. Hybodus belonged to the order Hybodontiformes, a group of early sharks that were widespread across ancient seas.

Hybodus teeth are distinctive and easily recognisable. They typically possess a central pointed cusp flanked by smaller accessory cusps, adapted for gripping slippery prey such as fish, while some were robust enough to crush harder-shelled organisms. This dentition reflects the shark’s versatile diet and its role as a key predator in Triassic ecosystems.

The presence of Hybodus teeth at Aust Cliff is particularly important, as it shows that these ancient sharks thrived in the coastal seas of what is now southern Britain during the late Triassic.

Fossil Features and Preservation

This specimen preserves a well-defined Hybodus tooth, naturally set within a block of sediment from the fossiliferous bone bed. The tooth’s cusp structure and fine enamel ridges are visible, displaying the features that make Hybodus fossils so scientifically distinctive.

The natural block format enhances its display value, providing geological context while protecting the fossil. Coprolite fragments and small bone inclusions are often present in these blocks, adding to the authenticity and interest of the specimen.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Hybodus shark tooth fossils from Aust Cliff are highly sought after due to their rarity, locality, and significance in understanding Triassic marine ecosystems. They are valuable both to collectors and researchers, as they provide direct evidence of shark diversity and adaptation at a time of great evolutionary change.

This specimen is ideal for private collectors of vertebrate fossils, enthusiasts of shark evolution, or educators seeking to illustrate the diversity of Triassic marine life. Its strong provenance and careful preparation make it a standout addition to any fossil collection.

A Rare Fossil from the Upper Triassic

This Hybodus shark tooth fossil block represents a rare and fascinating piece of natural history from one of Britain’s most famous fossil beds. Its combination of scientific detail, clear provenance, and display value makes it a remarkable specimen, connecting you directly to the ancient seas of the Upper Triassic.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.