Very Rare A-Grade Synechodus rhaeticus Shark Tooth Fossil Block Aust Cliff Bristol Westbury Formation Upper Triassic

Description

Rare Synechodus rhaeticus Shark Tooth Fossil from Aust Cliff

This listing offers a very rare and highly sought-after Synechodus rhaeticus shark tooth, preserved in a natural sediment block from the world-famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK. Graded A for quality, this specimen displays fine preservation and is presented exactly as discovered, with the photographs showing the actual fossil you will receive. The scale cube in the images measures 1 cm, and full sizing details can be seen in the photographs.

Geological Setting and Provenance

The fossil comes from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, dating to the Upper Triassic period, approximately 208–201 million years ago. Aust Cliff is internationally renowned as one of the most important Rhaetian fossil sites in Europe, yielding a wealth of vertebrate material including sharks, bony fish, marine reptiles, and abundant coprolites. The bed in which this tooth was found represents a shallow marine environment deposited during the Rhaetian stage, immediately before the Triassic–Jurassic mass extinction. Fossils from this bed are of considerable scientific and historical importance, providing a window into the last ecosystems of the Triassic seas.

About Synechodus rhaeticus

Synechodus rhaeticus is an extinct species of neoselachian shark, belonging to the family Synechodontidae within the order Hexanchiformes. It is known primarily from its distinctive teeth, which feature robust cusps flanked by multiple lateral cusplets, designed for gripping and slicing prey. These features indicate a versatile predatory lifestyle, with the ability to consume both soft-bodied prey and tougher organisms. Fossils of Synechodus rhaeticus are rare and highly prized, as they represent one of the earliest examples of neoselachian sharks, the lineage that ultimately gave rise to many modern shark families.

Morphology and Notable Traits

The tooth preserved in this specimen displays the typical triangular crown with sharp cusps and finely serrated edges associated with Synechodus rhaeticus. The enamel is well preserved, and the surrounding block provides additional context, preserving part of the sedimentary structure of the fossil bed. Such features not only make this fossil visually appealing but also scientifically valuable, as it contributes to our understanding of shark diversity and adaptation during the Late Triassic.

Depositional Environment

The Aust Cliff fossil beds represent a shallow, nearshore lagoonal to marginal marine depositional environment. Periods of low oxygen and fine sediment accumulation created exceptional conditions for fossilisation. Vertebrate remains, including shark teeth such as this specimen, became concentrated in these beds, often alongside bones of marine reptiles and masses of coprolites. These deposits provide key insights into marine biodiversity just before the Triassic–Jurassic boundary and are studied globally for their palaeontological significance.

Discovery and Preparation

This specimen was discovered on the 7th of April 2025 by our experienced field team members, Alister and Alison, at Aust Cliff. Following collection, it was carefully cleaned, stabilised, and treated by Alison, ensuring the tooth is both visually striking and professionally prepared for long-term preservation. Its presentation within the block makes it ideal for display while retaining its natural geological context.

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. A Synechodus rhaeticus shark tooth of this grade and provenance is exceptionally rare and a superb addition to any fossil collection. Due to the limited accessibility of Aust Cliff and the scarcity of well-preserved Synechodus material, pieces of this quality are seldom available on the market.

A Unique Opportunity

This A-grade Synechodus rhaeticus shark tooth fossil represents a tangible piece of Upper Triassic natural history. With its excellent preservation, scientific significance, and provenance from one of Britain’s most important fossil sites, this specimen is an extraordinary acquisition for collectors, educators, and palaeontology enthusiasts alike. It provides not only a fascinating display piece but also an invaluable glimpse into the evolutionary history of sharks.