This authentic Mako shark tooth fossil was discovered in the fossil-rich sediments near Bakersfield, California, a region internationally recognised for its abundance of marine fossils. The specimen dates to the Middle Miocene epoch, approximately 15–12 million years ago, when much of present-day central California was covered by a warm, shallow sea.

The tooth belonged to the extinct shark species Isurus hastalis, commonly referred to as the Broad-Toothed Mako. This powerful pelagic predator inhabited ancient oceans worldwide and is often discussed in palaeontological research due to its possible evolutionary relationship to early great white sharks. Fossils of this species are frequently recovered from the Sharktooth Hill Bonebed, a renowned fossil locality within the Temblor Formation.

Sharks constantly replace their teeth throughout their lives, shedding thousands over time. These discarded teeth settled on the prehistoric seabed, where many eventually became buried in sediment and fossilised. Over millions of years, geological processes transformed them into the mineralised specimens collected today.

Mako shark teeth are highly sought after by fossil collectors because of their distinctive form. The teeth typically display a broad triangular crown with smooth cutting edges and a strong bilobed root, reflecting their adaptation for capturing fast-moving prey such as fish and smaller marine vertebrates.

Specimens from the Bakersfield region are particularly appreciated within the fossil collecting community due to their preservation quality and natural mineral colouring. Each tooth offers a tangible connection to the Miocene marine ecosystem that once thrived along the ancient Pacific coastline.

This fossil represents a genuine piece of prehistoric ocean history and makes an excellent addition to a fossil collection, display cabinet, or educational study set.

Fossil Information

Species: Isurus hastalis
Common Name: Broad-Toothed Mako Shark
Geological Age: Middle Miocene
Approximate Age: 15–12 million years
Formation: Temblor Formation (Sharktooth Hill Bonebed)
Location: Bakersfield, Kern County, California, USA
Palaeoenvironment: Marine seabed within the ancient Temblor Sea

Identification Features

• Broad triangular crown
• Smooth cutting edges without serrations
• Thick enamel typical of fast-swimming predatory sharks
• Strong root with two distinct lobes

These characteristics help distinguish Isurus hastalis from serrated-edge species such as Otodus megalodon or Carcharodon carcharias.

Collector Notes

The Sharktooth Hill locality is widely regarded as one of the most productive marine vertebrate fossil sites in North America. Fossils recovered from this area include sharks, rays, whales, dolphins, sea lions, bony fish, and numerous marine invertebrates.

Because fossilisation depends on local sediment chemistry and mineral content, colour variations in shark teeth are completely natural. Specimens may display shades ranging from grey and brown to black or tan.

Please Note

This is a genuine fossil formed through natural geological processes over millions of years. Minor imperfections, wear, or matrix remnants are normal for authentic fossils and contribute to their individuality.