Theropod dinosaur, Allosaurus fragilis Tooth
The coloration, size, and general morphology are consistent with Allosaurus teeth found in this formation.
Key Characteristics
Size and Shape
• The specimen’s dimensions (2.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches) align with typical Allosaurus tooth measurements
• The curved, robust form is characteristic of lateral maxillary or dentary teeth
Physical Features
• The specimen shows a weathered, mineralized surface typical of Morrison Formation fossils
• The grayish-brown coloration is consistent with fossils from this geological context
Context
The Morrison Formation is one of North America’s most significant dinosaur fossil sources, dating from the Late Jurassic period (approximately 156.3 to 146.8 million years ago). Allosaurus was one of the dominant predators in this ecosystem, and their teeth are among the most commonly found theropod fossils in the formation.
Identification Confidence
The specimen’s characteristics strongly suggest it is a partial Allosaurus tooth, though without more detailed examination and preparation, this identification should be considered preliminary. Tooth traces and fossils from this formation often show distinctive patterns of preservation that match what we see in this specimen
Allosaurus was a carnivorous theropod that lived during the Jurassic period. This tooth comes from the Morrison Formation, Colorado.
This is a nice example of a lateral maxillary or dentary (upper or lower jaw) tooth with a well defined distal carina (backward facing serrated edge). The tooth has a high gloss, black patina and is offered, as found, in the sandstone matrix which has been stabilized along an existing crack.
There does not have any repair or restoration to the tooth. It should be noted that it is very difficult to determine tooth position based on the inspection of isolated examples. Therefore we use certain morphological features to suggest general location. A morphological diagram is provided further down the page.
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