Sarcoprion

Sar-ko-pree-on.
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Cassidy Wood

Paleoentomologist

Cassidy Wood uncovers the tiny yet significant world of prehistoric insects. Her research on amber-preserved specimens has revealed intricate details about ancient ecosystems.

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Name

Sarcoprion (Flesh saw).

Phonetic

Sar-ko-pree-on.

Named By

E. Nielsen - 1952.

Classification

Chordata, Chondrichthyes, Eugeneodontida, Agassizodontidae.

Diet

Carnivore.

Species

S. edax

Size

Uncertain.

Known locations

Greenland.

Time Period

Permian.

Fossil representation

The teeth arranged in a 'whorl'.

In Depth

       Sarcoprion appears to have been a similar kind of shark as the bizarre Helicoprion, but instead of having a circular ‘tooth-whorl’ like Helicoprion, Sarcoprion had more of a semi-circular whorl set upon its lower jaw. Sarcoprion may have rubbed this feature against prey that was pressed against the upper jaw, the lower teeth cutting through in a saw like manner.

Further Reading

– On new or little known Edestidae from the Permian and Triassic of East Greenland, E. Nielsen – 1952.

SPECIES SPOTLIGHT