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Helicoprion, with ammonites
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Helicoprion, with ammonites
Helicoprion. Artwork of the prehistoric shark Helicoprion swimming among ammonites. This genus of shark existed from the late Carboniferous period (280 million years ago), until the early Triassic period (225 million years ago). This shark is known only from fossilised sets of teeth that form circular coils. It is thought that the tooth-whorl formed on the lower jaw and developed as newer teeth grew and pushed the older teeth further forward. Shark skeletons are made of cartilage and do not fossilise well. The only parts that fossilise are teeth and parts of the fins. Ammonites are an extinct group of molluscs that are thought to be related to modern cephalopods such as octopus, squid and cuttlefish
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Media ID 6371327
© CHRISTIAN DARKIN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ammonite Ammonites Carboniferous Coil Coiled Early Shark Ichthyology Jaws Mollusc Mollusk Mouth Pre Historic Pre History Prehistoric Shark Primitive Shark Shark Spiral Spiralling Swimming Teeth Triassic Whorl Palaeontology
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This print showcases the Helicoprion, a prehistoric shark swimming gracefully among ammonites. The artwork beautifully captures the essence of this ancient creature that roamed the Earth from 280 million years ago until 225 million years ago, spanning from the late Carboniferous period to the early Triassic period. What makes Helicoprion truly unique is its tooth-whorl formation, which forms circular coils and can be seen in fossilized sets of teeth. It is believed that these tooth-coils developed on the lower jaw as newer teeth grew and pushed older ones forward. Although shark skeletons are primarily made of cartilage and do not fossilize well, their teeth and parts of their fins have been preserved over time. Accompanying Helicoprion in this underwater scene are ammonites, an extinct group of mollusks related to modern cephalopods like octopus, squid, and cuttlefish. These creatures add another layer of intrigue to this snapshot from prehistory. The illustration serves as a testament to both scientific knowledge and artistic talent. It allows us to marvel at the wonders of nature's past while contemplating our own place within it. This image provides a glimpse into a world long gone but forever imprinted in fossils—reminding us that life has evolved through countless ages before our own existence began.
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