Rebbachisaurus Dinosaur Tooth Fossil Kem Kem Beds Morocco Cretaceous Aptian Age

Description

Authentic Dinosaur Fossil from the Kem Kem Basin

This exceptional Rebbachisaurus dinosaur tooth fossil originates from the world-famous Kem Kem Beds, Tegana Formation, situated in the southeastern region of Morocco. Dated to the Aptian Stage of the Early Cretaceous Period (approximately 125–113 million years ago), this formation is celebrated for producing some of the most scientifically important vertebrate fossils of North Africa. The Rebbachisaurus was a member of the Diplodocoidea superfamily, a long-necked sauropod distinguished by its elongated cervical vertebrae and whip-like tail. Each specimen recovered from the Kem Kem Basin provides an invaluable glimpse into the ecosystems that flourished when northern Africa was a humid, river-dominated environment teeming with large dinosaurs, fish, and crocodilians.

Geological Context – Tegana Formation, Aptian Stage

The fossil was recovered from the Tegana Formation, a major component of the Kem Kem Group that spans parts of southeastern Morocco and western Algeria. These deposits consist mainly of cross-bedded sandstones and ferruginous clays laid down in fluvial and deltaic systems, representing river channels and floodplains. The environment was dominated by braided streams and seasonal watercourses, ideal for preserving vertebrate remains transported and buried by sediment-rich flows. The Aptian Stage marks a time of significant global warmth and high sea levels, which contributed to abundant plant growth and diverse dinosaur faunas across the Gondwanan continents. The Kem Kem Beds are especially noted for producing fossils of both herbivorous and carnivorous species, offering crucial insight into Early Cretaceous ecosystems.

Species Information – Rebbachisaurus garasbae

Rebbachisaurus garasbae was a large herbivorous sauropod belonging to the family Rebbachisauridae within the Diplodocoidea. This group is characterized by long, lightweight skeletons with elongated neural spines forming a shallow sail along the back, and teeth adapted for stripping vegetation rather than grinding. Fossil evidence suggests Rebbachisaurus could reach lengths exceeding 14 metres and fed primarily on soft ferns and conifer shoots. Its teeth, such as this specimen, are narrow, conical, and slightly curved – a morphology suited to raking foliage. These features distinguish Rebbachisaurids from their more massive relatives like Diplodocus and Apatosaurus, illustrating evolutionary diversification within sauropods toward more efficient feeding strategies.

Preservation and Authenticity

This specimen is a genuine dinosaur tooth fossil from the Aptian sediments of the Kem Kem Basin. The fossil retains fine surface texture and enamel definition, typical of Rebbachisaurus dentition, and may display natural mineral staining from iron-rich deposits. The colours range from deep reddish-brown to ochre, reflecting the oxidation of hematite within the host rock. Each tooth is unique and selected for its quality, completeness, and display value. The accompanying scale rule cubes (1 cm) in the photo provide accurate sizing, and the image shown depicts the exact specimen the buyer will receive. The fossil has not been artificially reconstructed or enhanced—only carefully stabilised to preserve its integrity for study or collection.

Collectible and Scientific Value

Owning a Rebbachisaurus tooth from the Kem Kem Beds connects collectors to a key moment in dinosaur evolution when Africa’s sauropods diversified across lush riverine plains. The fossil is ideal for educational, scientific, or display purposes and represents both geological and palaeontological heritage. It offers a tangible link to the Cretaceous world, a time when North Africa was home to some of the largest animals ever to walk the Earth.

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

Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1 cm. Full sizing details are shown in the photo. The specimen pictured is the exact fossil you will receive, professionally selected for quality and authenticity.