Bison or Cow Molar? Fossilized?

[Jojo5818]

I found this tooth in Ladonia, Texas. It was sitting almost on the surface of a river bank. I’ve researched and think it is a M1 molar but I do not know if it is cow or bison. Also, I don’t know if it is a fossil or recent. If someone could help it would be much appreciated! 

[Harry Pristis]

My guess is that this is a left M1 from a cow.  That guess is based on the condition of the tooth, the lack of crenulations in the enamel, and subtle differences in the enamel pattern.  It's a good specimen for a comparison collection.

 

 

 

[Jojo5818]

3 hours ago, Harry Pristis said:

My guess is that this is a left M1 from a cow.  That guess is based on the condition of the tooth, the lack of crenulations in the enamel, and subtle differences in the enamel pattern.  It's a good specimen for a comparison collection.

 

 

 

Hi thank you so much, I was also wondering if you could tell how old it is? if it is new or old?

[Harry Pristis]

The cow was 7-10 years old (MOL) when it died.  Cows were introduced into Texas in historical time.  Realistically, I guess that the tooth has not been in the river for more than a year or two.