Genuine Myliobatis Fossil Ray Dental Plate from Oulad Abdoun Basin Morocco with COA

Description

Exceptional Myliobatis Fossil Ray Dental Plate

This listing offers a carefully selected Myliobatis Fossil Ray Dental Plate from the world-renowned Oulad Abdoun Basin, Morocco. Dating back to the Paleocene epoch (approximately 60 million years ago), this specimen represents a remarkable piece of marine vertebrate paleontology. Each fossil is completely genuine and comes with its own Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring peace of mind for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts alike. The specimen has been photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. Please see the accompanying photo for full sizing details, as each piece is a unique natural specimen.

Geological Origin – Oulad Abdoun Basin, Morocco

The fossil originates from the phosphate deposits of the Oulad Abdoun Basin, a globally significant fossil site in Morocco. These rich beds are famous for yielding an incredible diversity of marine life from the Paleocene and Eocene periods, including sharks, rays, bony fish, reptiles, and other marine vertebrates. The depositional environment was a shallow, warm, marine setting where organic-rich sediments preserved skeletal material in extraordinary detail. Phosphate-rich layers provided the perfect mineral conditions for fossilisation, making this region one of the most important paleontological localities in North Africa.

Fossil Type and Species – Myliobatis (Eagle Rays)

The specimen is identified as a dental plate of Myliobatis, a genus of eagle rays belonging to the order Myliobatiformes and the family Myliobatidae. Instead of sharp teeth, these rays developed broad, pavement-like dental plates adapted for crushing the shells of molluscs and crustaceans. The preserved fossil plate clearly demonstrates this adaptation, showcasing a flattened, ridged structure that once formed part of the ray’s powerful crushing apparatus. Such fossils provide direct evidence of dietary habits and evolutionary specialisation in these ancient cartilaginous fishes.

Paleontological Significance

Myliobatis dental plates are highly sought-after fossils because they highlight the ecological role of rays within marine ecosystems. Unlike the more commonly encountered shark teeth from Moroccan phosphate beds, ray plates are less frequently found intact, making them prized specimens for collectors. Their morphology reveals how rays evolved specialised feeding strategies during the early Paleogene, shortly after the mass extinction event that ended the reign of the non-avian dinosaurs. These fossils thus represent not only an attractive specimen but also an important marker of post-extinction recovery and diversification in marine faunas.

A Unique Collectible Piece

This specimen has been carefully chosen for quality and authenticity. Each piece is slightly different due to natural variation, but all share the same distinct morphology of the Myliobatis dental plate. Its compact size makes it ideal for display, study, or as a teaching specimen. Whether you are a serious fossil collector, a geology enthusiast, or someone searching for a unique natural history gift, this Myliobatis plate represents an outstanding opportunity to own a tangible connection to the ancient seas of the Paleocene.

Guarantee of Authenticity

• 100% genuine fossil specimen
• Certificate of Authenticity included with every purchase
• Carefully photographed to show the actual type of specimen you will receive

Invest in a piece of Earth’s history today with this fascinating Myliobatis Fossil Ray Dental Plate from the Paleocene of Morocco – a natural treasure from one of the world’s richest fossil beds.