Squalicorax kaupi (Crow Shark)
The crow shark is the most famous and most easily recognizable shark tooth from the Cretaceous. It is a striking example of convergent evolution, as its tooth morphology looks strikingly similar to that of the tiger sharks, especially Galeocerdo aduncus. S. kaupi has the smaller teeth of the two species recognized in South Carolina. This is because S. kaupi had more teeth in the jaw than S. pristodontis. Consequently, it also has more dental variation than S. pristodontis. Size is the best was to distinguish between the species, but their more defined distal notch is also a good indicator. It can be argued that S. kaupi contains multiple species of crow sharks with similar dentition, however attempting to differentiate them is an almost worthwhile exercise.
Size: ~1.25cm (1/2 inch), with larger teeth uncommon
Scale: 1cm
Age: Late Cretaceous
Anterior
The anterior (frontal) teeth are, generally taller than they are wide and have a distinct āUā-shaped root. These teeth are common, and the most common position.
Lateral
The lateral (side) teeth have approximately the same width as height. These teeth have a slightly vertically compressed root, causing the āUā-shape to flatten some into a more gentle curve. These teeth are uncommon.
Posterior
The posterior (rear) teeth start to be wider than they are tall. These teeth have a thinner enamel strip and the root lobes have been significantly flattened. These teeth are very uncommon.
Extreme Posterior
The extreme posterior (rear) teeth are variable in their morphology. These teeth range from very flattened to looking similar to symphyseals. These teeth are rare.
Scale: 0.5cm
Symphyseal
The symphyseal (middle) teeth are very horizontally compressed. These teeth have are very small (only a few mm tall) and have some diversity in their form. These teeth are very rare.
