GLOBIDENS MOSASAUR TOOTH IN MATRIX *DT1-038

Product Description

This rare mosasaur  tooth specimen was collected from the phosphate mine region in Khouribga, Morocco.  Globidens teeth are uncommon so this is an absolute must for fanciers of mosasaurs.  The enamel is completely intact and crown is undamaged and in perfect preservation, in the original sandstone matrix in which it was found.

HISTORY

This rare species of mosasaur is named from the unique globular shape of its teeth.  The name GLOBIDENS is derived from the two Latin words globus meaning "globe, sphere" and dens "tooth".  These globular teeth are one of the chief characteristics of this relatively small and highly specialized mosasaur. 

With it's short and massive head outfitted with thick jaws lined with these blunt, bulbous teeth, Globidens could crush hard-shelled mollusks like ammonites, clams, snails and possibly the shells of tortoises.  The side-to-side structural strength needed from tearing and holding prey in the teeth of other mosasaur species is not necessary for Globidens.  The Globidens mosasaur did not feed on large, thrashing prey like fish, pterosaurs, sharks and even other mosasaurs.  The massive and deep roots typical in the teeth of other mosasaur species were not necessary in the teeth of a Globidens as all the pressure was straight down onto the tooth in the crushing operation of feeding.  Because of this use and the nature of what was eaten, the base of Globidens teeth are constricted, possess a small root and are covered in a wrinkled enamel to prevent slippage as the shell of its prey is crushed.  Also lacking in the Globidens are functional pterygoid teeth, teeth in the back of the throat to hold and prevent partially swallowed prey from escaping, that are also a characteristic of other mosasaur varieties.  The estimated size of this mosasaur is 18 - 20 feet with a skull of 19 inches in length.

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