Shark Fossils
Our Collections:
Collections,
Shark Fossils,
Shark Dentitions,
Shark Tooth Identification,
Megalodon,
Lee Creek Parotodus
The Chondrichthyes (kon-drik-thee-s), are fish that have a cartilaginous skeleton (similar to the cartilage of a human nose and ear) and five or more gill slits on each side of their body.  Chondrichthyes include sharks, rays, skates, and chimeras. They are divided into two subclasses, the Elasmobranchs and the Holocephalii. The Elasmobranchs include the sharks, skates, and rays while the Holocephalii include the chimeras and elephant fish.  Sharks first appeared in the geologic record 450 million years ago during the Silurian Period. Due to this lengthy fossil record, sharks are often referred to as "living fossils." Occasionally a fossilized vertebra (bones comprising the spinal column) will be discovered, but usually the teeth are the only elements of a shark that will undergo fossilization.  The fossil remains of nearly 50 species of shark have been unearthed within the Aurora Phosphate Mine, thus producing one of the richest Miocene/Pliocene assemblages of fossil shark species in the world.  We invite you to visit the Aurora Fossil Museum to learn about these amazing creatures. From the menacing beast MEGALODON to the Angel Shark (Squatina sp.) we are certain your visit will be an educational and inspiring experience!  Related Links• Stingray Fossils• Cetacean Fossils • Shark Dentitions • Shark Tooth Identification • Megalodon • Lee Creek Parotodus |
