Shark Species Spotlight: Scapanorhynchus texanus (Extinct Goblin Shark)
July 8, 2025
In the brooks and streams of New Jersey, fossil hunters frequently uncover teeth from one of the strangest sharks of the ancient seas—Scapanorhynchus texanus, an extinct relative of today’s goblin shark. Known for its slender, striated teeth and deep evolutionary roots, this species once patrolled the shallow coastal waters of the Late Cretaceous.
This article explores the fascinating world of S. texanus, with special attention to its presence in New Jersey. From identification tips to top collecting sites like Big Brook and Shark River, it offers a deep dive into the anatomy, ecology, and fossil legacy of this elusive prehistoric predator.
