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.
 


 

Striatolamia macrota

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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