THE SHARKS

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The Gray Sharks
Carcharhinus priscus (Agassiz)
 

Age - Miocene  Commonality - Less common

The teeth of the Carcharhinus priscus range in size from 1/4 to 1/2 inch, with the latter being the maximum length. Fine serrations extend all around the main cusp and shoulders, with the serrations on the main cusp being extremely fine. A hand lens may be required to clearly make see the serrations on the main cusp. The roots are compressed with short root lobes and a weak nutrient grove. The Carcharhinus sp., also known as the Whaler sharks, are a large group, and it is difficult to distinguish between the different species. I am only aware of C. priscus being reported from NJ. 


 

Carcharhinus priscus
Monmouth County, NJ.
 


 

Both the shoulder and crown of C. priscus  are serrated.
The serrations on the main cusp may be difficult to see.
 


 

Close-up of serrations on the main cusp.
 


 

Carcharhinus priscus
 

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