Extinct Sand Tiger
Striatolamia
macrota (Agassiz)
Age -
Eocene Occurrence - Common
Striatolamia macrota is one of the few
species from NJ to posse moderately strong striations on the lingual side of the
tooth. These teeth range in size from 1/2 inch to 2 inches plus, with
the average being a little over an inch. The anterior teeth have a
moderately narrow elongated crown with one small (sometimes even completely
lacking), cusplet on each shoulder. The moderately strong striations tend to weaken the larger the tooth gets.
There is a pronounced lingual protuberance and obvious nutrient grove on
the root. The lateral teeth are broader and compressed, the striations are weaker or
lacking entirely and the cusplets reduced, often appearing as no more
than a scalloped nub. Although not that uncommon, these teeth are very
prone to root damage.
Striation comparison page
Lingual view of anterior tooth.
The striations are a good characteristic for identification.
1 1/4 inch
Monmouth County, NJ.
I just like this picture.
Monmouth County, NJ
Profile view, with no stream wear the striations show
clearly.
The striations on the lateral teeth are reduced, but present on most
teeth.
Note the scalloped cusplets.
Lateral Striatolamia macrota.
When view on profile the lateral teeth are very compressed.
Average tooth size is a about one inch but larger
teeth are not uncommon.
The tooth on the right is just shy of two inches
Blades are the order of the day in the New Jersey area.
Expect to find a significant amount of blades or damaged teeth,
laterals
seem to hold up a little better.
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