An Otodus obliquus tooth is a fossilized dental structure from an extinct lamniform shark species that lived during the Paleocene to early Eocene epochs, approximately 60–50 million years ago. The tooth is composed primarily of highly mineralized enameloid rich in hydroxyapatite, which gives it exceptional hardness and allows for long-term preservation in the fossil record. Its robust root and thick crown reflect adaptation to high mechanical stress during feeding.
Morphologically, the tooth is distinguished by a large triangular central cusp flanked by well-defined lateral cusplets and sharp cutting edges. This configuration indicates a feeding strategy focused on grasping and slicing relatively large prey, including fish and early marine vertebrates. The oblique orientation of the crown enhances cutting efficiency and prey retention.
From an evolutionary and scientific perspective, Otodus obliquus occupies an important position within the megatoothed shark lineage. Its dental characteristics represent a transitional stage leading to later, larger predatory sharks such as Otodus megalodon. As a result, these teeth are significant paleontological specimens for studying shark evolution, paleoecology, and marine ecosystems of the early Cenozoic era.
