Large Mammoth Tooth With Root. Mammuthus columbi. Pleistocene. Sarasota County, Florida, USA. ...

Description

Large Mammoth Tooth With Root
Mammuthus columbi
Pleistocene
Sarasota County, Florida, USA

Mammoths were large herbivorous mammals that were ancestral to modern day elephants. The teeth are unique: with a "washboard" surface that looks something like slices of bread in a toaster. Their teeth were suited to grinding hard to digest food such as tough grasses and thick vegetation. Though similar to mastodons, mammoths were a distinctly different group. Mastodon dentition is very different, and adapted for a separate diet, indicating that these two groups did not actually compete for food. The Columbian Mammoth is also known as the American Mammoth, and was actually much larger than the Woolly Mammoth. Few Mammoth teeth are found with a root system like this incredible specimen. This tooth has a chewing surface of a "normal" size (for a Mammoth!), some 8 inches (20 cm) in length, but it is the ridiculously large "accordion" like chambers that spread out, and up, from under the root of the tooth. Overall, this tooth is in fair condition with significant wear to the surface. The tooth's surface has a thumprint size area missing, and there is a corresponding finger size patch missing around the side of the "gumline." Regardless, this is an outstanding fossil, as the complexity of the root structure has been so well preserved.
Overall Measurements: 14.5 x 7.5 x 4.0 inches (36.8 x 19.0 x 10.3 cm)
Offered at no reserve.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.