Theriosuchus Crocodile Tooth Fossil – Cretaceous Valanginian – Ashdown Formation – Pett Level, East Sussex UK

Description

Theriosuchus sp. indet. Crocodile Tooth – Cretaceous (Valanginian Stage) – Cliff End Bone Bed – Ashdown Formation – Pett Level, East Sussex, England

This listing features a genuine crocodile tooth fossil from the genus Theriosuchus, discovered in the Cliff End Bone Bed of the Ashdown Formation at Pett Level, East Sussex. This small but distinctive fossil dates to the Early Cretaceous (Valanginian) and is part of the famous Wealden Group, known for its diverse vertebrate assemblages.

Fossil Type: Crocodilian Tooth

Genus: Theriosuchus sp. indet.

Order: Crocodylomorpha

Family: Atoposauridae (tentative)

Superfamily: Neosuchia

Geological Stage: Lower Cretaceous – Valanginian (~139–133 million years ago)

Formation: Ashdown Formation (part of the Wealden Group)

Unit: Cliff End Bone Bed

Location: Pett Level, East Sussex, United Kingdom

Depositional Environment: Freshwater floodplain or estuarine – fluvial-lacustrine deposits with bone-rich lags and reworked vertebrate material

Biozone/Zone: No formal ammonite zonation due to non-marine origin; associated with terrestrial vertebrate biostratigraphy

Morphology Features: This small fossil tooth exhibits the typical conical form of Theriosuchus species, with slight curvature and surface ornamentation such as vertical ridges or faint striations. Some specimens may show minor constriction at the base. Teeth of Theriosuchus are often interpreted as being adapted for a varied diet, including invertebrates and small vertebrates, aligning with their role as semi-aquatic opportunistic feeders.

Geological Context: The Ashdown Formation is one of the principal units of the Wealden Group, deposited in a dynamic lowland fluvial system in what is now southern England. The Cliff End Bone Bed is a highly fossiliferous horizon containing a mix of disarticulated vertebrate remains, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and dinosaurs. Theriosuchus is one of the more common crocodilian genera represented in the Wealden, with fossils known from multiple Wealden sites.

Condition: Well-preserved tooth with visible morphology as shown in photos. Some wear from fluvial transport typical of bone bed material. Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm – please see image for full sizing and detail.

Important Note:

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

An excellent and rare UK vertebrate fossil representing one of the small crocodilians of the Wealden landscape—perfect for collectors, educators, and palaeontology enthusiasts alike.