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MASS DEATH FOSSIL LARGE FISH MOUTH CRUSHER PLATE WITH SHARK AND OTHER FISH FOSSILS Khouribga Phosphates - Morocco LATE CRETACEOUS PERIOD: 96 - 66 million years ago Still in their original phosphate matrix as found, this large block includes one CHOICE GRADE fossil Eodiaphyodus granulosus mouth crusher plate one one side and a host of other fossil shark and fish teeth and bone fossils on the other side. The large mouth crusher plate is prepared high up out of the matrix. The back side of the matrix has been cleaned to reveal a different layer filled with fossil bones and teeth of other companion predators of the same period. These fossils include Cretaceous sharks, a large fang from an Enchodus and an individual large tooth from the pavement plate of a huge ray shark. Also scattered in the matrix are coprolites and vertebrae fossils. This fascinating specimen demonstrates the concentrated deposits that some fossils are found in. This fossil-bearing chunk of the Cretaceous ocean floor offers an intriguing glimpse of the varied dangerous life-forms that once lurked beneath the prehistoric seas during the same period as many dangerous meat-eating land dinosaurs. The large bony fish Eodiaphyodus possessed this array of crushing teeth toward the back of its throat. This was used to crush the bone and shell of its prey prior to swallowing to aid in killing and digestion. The beautiful detail of the teeth are reminiscent of a cobblestone street. Specimens of these are now harder to locate than they were years ago. This is at the top of the size range and has not incurred any damage. A portion of original matrix is still attached. INTACT WITH NO REPAIR AND NO RESTORATION. Eodiaphyodus was a member of the suborder Albuloidea. This large fish shared this group with other bony and tarpon-like fishes such as Paralbula, Phyllodus, Pseudoegertonia and Egertonia. All of these fish possessed the mouth crusher plate feature. HIGHLY AESTHETIC / FASCINATING DEATH MASS OF MULTIPLE CRETACEOUS SHARK AND FISH FOSSILS IN MATRIX 5.2" x 4" overall with matrix, mouth plate is 3.2" across SOLD F011 INCLUDES STAND Actual Item - One Only |
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