Bakersfield hexanchus in Matrix Shark Tooth

Complete Hexanchus andersoni from Shark Tooth Hill in Kern County, California.
 As a bonus, the piece of rib bone on the bottom has many shark bite marks in it.

Shark Tooth Hill, located near Bakersfield, California, is one of the world's most significant Miocene epoch marine fossil sites. Renowned for its abundance of shark teeth, including those from the prehistoric Megalodon, it offers a unique glimpse into marine life approximately 15 to 16 million years ago. The site is part of the Monterey Formation and is celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved fossils, which include not just shark teeth but also the remains of other marine animals like whales, seals, and rays.

Bob Ernst, a notable figure associated with Shark Tooth Hill, played a crucial role in the exploration and study of this area. As a dedicated fossil hunter and enthusiast, Ernst's work significantly contributed to the understanding of the site's paleontological value. His efforts in collecting and studying the fossils from Shark Tooth Hill have provided invaluable insights into the Miocene marine ecosystem and have helped to foster a greater appreciation for this unique and historically rich site. Ernst's legacy is not just in the fossils he discovered but also in his promotion of the field of paleontology and the preservation of this remarkable site.

Hexanchus andersoni

Miocene

Bakersfield, CA

Temblor Formation -- Round Mountain Silt Member

1.36". Matrix 3.36"