THE SHARKS

Extinct Mackerel Shark
Cretolamna appendiculata (Agassiz)

Age - Cretaceous  Commonality - Common
 

Cretolamna appendiculata is one of three species found in New Jersey that is locally referred to as “the porbeagles”. The more generally accepted common name is mackerel shark. C. appendiculata is a common find in the Cretaceous streams of NJ. These teeth have a compressed root which has a rectangular looking shape. The main cusp is broad and there are two stocky triangular shaped cusplets. Teeth of Cretolamna appendiculata average ½ to ¾ of an inch with some teeth going a little over 1 inch. These teeth, particularly the laterals, can resemble Archaeolamna kopingensis. See the porbeagle comparison page for further clarification.

Note: Cretolamna appendiculata may also be found in Tertiary locations in New Jersey, although with much less frequency. 

Lingual view
Anterior, Lateral, Posterior
Monmouth County, NJ
 

Labial view
Anterior, Lateral, Posterior

 

The cusplets of C. appendiculata have a wide triangular shape.
 

C. appendiculata posses a compressed root.
 

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