I found this tooth several years ago at Big Brook NJ and I am not sure what it is

[Suchascenicworld]

Hello,

 

So I just moved back to New Jersey from the UK and when going through my old things, I came across a tooth that I found from Big Brook years ago. I used to work in Plio-Pleistocene zooarch at hominin sites and so I immediately thought reptile (it semi looks like some of the fossil croc teeth I would have to work with). I think it might be Plesiosaur but I am not quite sure!

 

Any insight would be greatly appreciated! 

[facehugger]

Hmmm...looks kinda like Enchodus to me. Check out a reference here: 

 

[Mark Kmiecik]

Looks like fish to me also.

[Suchascenicworld]

I never thought of that! thanks..still uncertain though. I wonder if it could also be Xiphactinus?

[Suchascenicworld]

@Mark Kmiecik and @facehugger, I totally forgot that there is a professor at the same uni where I teach that specialises in bony fish! I might send him an email and will update you all! 

[facehugger]

26 minutes ago, Suchascenicworld said:

I never thought of that! thanks..still uncertain though. I wonder if it could also be Xiphactinus?

Could be...I have found teeth for both in Texas cretaceous formations. But really reminds me much more Enchodus than Xiphactinus...

 

Let us know what you find out...

[Suchascenicworld]

Hey @facehugger, @Mark Kmiecik and @Darktooth,

 

Spoke with my colleague (who specializes in extinct bony fish)  and well, it really does show how awesome this community is...you were all right!  He said that without a doubt, it is Enchodus!

 

thank you everyone! 

[FossilDAWG]

Count me in the Xiphactinus camp.

 

Don

[Suchascenicworld]

hey @FossilDAWG, I just spoke with  colleague at the university I teach at and he said it is Enchodus. I am going to bring it in next time I am on campus so who knows, maybe he will change his mind when he sees it in person! thank you though!

 

[Al Dente]

I agree with Don. Xiphactinus.

[Suchascenicworld]

@Al Dente and @FossilDAWG, I would be incredibly excited if that was the case! I know he has a comparative collection at the uni so I guess it might be best to bring it in so he can see it in person! 

[The Jersey Devil]

It definitely looks like a Xiphactinus. Quite hard to find a larger one in nice shape here. A pic of the base should verify the ID.

[frankh8147]

Yes, a picture of the base would be great! Also, does this tooth have any cutting edges? 

[MeargleSchmeargl]

+1 vote for picture of the base.