49MM Otodus Obliquus Shark Vertebrae Fossil Bone In Matrix Morocco COA
Location: Oued Zem, Morocco
Weight: 1 Ounce
Dimensions: 1.9 Inches Long, 1.9 Inches Wide, 0.6 Inches Thick (Matrix)
Vertebrae Dimensions: 49MM
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Eocene Age, 54 million years old.
Name: Otodus
Diet: Carnivore
Size: Approximately 9 meters long
Known locations: Worldwide
Time Period: Eocene
Fossil representation: Teeth and vertebral centra.
Otodus is recognized as one of the largest known macropredatory sharks, with size estimates suggesting individuals reached lengths significantly greater than modern great white sharks. This extraordinary scale implies a predator capable of targeting large vertebrate prey and occupying upper trophic levels in ancient oceans. Fossil evidence, particularly large tooth specimens, indicates a shark adapted for powerful feeding behavior and efficient predation.
Although Otodus was an imposing predator, it shared marine habitats with other large carnivores, including archaeocete whales such as Basilosaurus. These early whales, reaching approximately eighteen meters in length, may have competed for similar prey resources, suggesting ecological niche overlap among top marine predators. Such coexistence reflects the complexity of Eocene marine ecosystems.
The ability of Otodus to thrive alongside emerging marine mammals underscores its ecological versatility and evolutionary success. Its fossils continue to provide valuable insights into predator-prey relationships during a pivotal period in marine history.
