Fossil Mako Shark Tooth from Sharktooth Hill, California
Travel back approximately 15.5 million years with this fascinating fossil shark tooth from Sharktooth Hill near Bakersfield, California. These fossilized lower shark teeth are prized for their distinctive natural coloration and connection to one of North America's well-known Miocene marine fossil localities.
Identified as a mako shark tooth (Isurus), this specimen offers a tangible connection to the ancient ocean that once covered much of California's Central Valley. Its natural coloration and preserved form make it an intriguing addition to a fossil collection, educational display, or collection of prehistoric marine life.
A Window into California's Ancient Seas
During the Middle Miocene, approximately 15 million years ago, higher sea levels covered much of what is now California's Central Valley. The marine deposits of the Temblor Formation preserve evidence of this ancient environment, including abundant fossil shark teeth, fish remains, and marine mammal fossils.
Sharktooth Hill, located near Bakersfield in Kern County, is especially well known for its fossil-rich bonebed. Over time, currents and other geological processes helped concentrate and rebury remains on the ancient seafloor. Today, these deposits provide paleontologists and collectors with valuable clues about the marine ecosystems of prehistoric California.
The distinctive coloration found in Sharktooth Hill fossils adds to their appeal, with individual teeth displaying their own natural variations in tone and pattern.
Fossil Properties
Fossil: Shark tooth
Identification: Mako shark (Isurus), as supplied
Geological age: Approximately 15.5 million years
Geological epoch: Middle Miocene
Formation: Temblor Formation
Locality: Sharktooth Hill, near Bakersfield, Kern County, California
Specimen size: Approximately 1.5 inches
Quantity: One fossil shark tooth
Collector Appeal
Fossil shark teeth are among the most recognizable reminders of prehistoric marine life. Because sharks continually replace their teeth throughout their lives, teeth are an important part of the fossil record and help scientists study ancient shark diversity and evolution.
Whether you're building a fossil collection, exploring paleontology, or searching for a distinctive piece of California's geological history, this Sharktooth Hill specimen offers a remarkable connection to an ocean that disappeared millions of years ago.
A Natural Piece of Prehistory
Every fossil tooth is unique. Natural coloration, shape, surface texture, and preservation will vary. You will receive one approximately 1.5-inch fossil tooth similar in quality to the photographs shown.
