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Otodus cf chubutensis (Ameghino, 1901)

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Here is a small Megalodon tooth measuring about 43 mm, which is slightly more than 1.5 inches. This tooth is of systematic interest because it still shows traces of the small lateral cusps. This feature is typical of the direct Megalodon ancestor Otodus chubutensis. Even earlier members of the genus, such as Otodus obliquus from Morocco, display these lateral cusps much more prominently. The evolutionary trend toward the reduction of this feature is well documented and supported by numerous transitional forms. This specimen may represent one of these transitional stages. The length of Megalodon teeth is traditionally measured along the cutting edge. This method often results in a larger number, but more importantly, it provides a better basis for comparison. In Megalodon teeth, the ratio of width to length varies significantly, meaning that a 90‑degree measurement from the root to the tip does not always reflect the true size. Below, we also provide the width‑to‑length ratio.

	Location:	Beaufort County, South Carolina, USA
	Size :	about 34 x 47 mm
	Age:	Miocene - Pliocene Hawthorn Fm (about 6 Ma)

Product no.: 12057