Shark teeth are not typically black when they are modern.
Modern vs. Fossil Shark Teeth: Color Differences
The color of a shark tooth largely depends on whether it is a modern tooth or a fossil.
- Modern Shark Teeth: Typically, modern shark teeth, including both the crown and the root, are white.
- Fossil Shark Teeth: Fossil shark teeth undergo a process called permineralization, where minerals replace the original tooth material over time. This process often results in darker colors such as black, grey, or beige. It is important to note that some fossil teeth may still exhibit a white crown, although the root is usually darker.
Factors Affecting Color
The specific minerals present in the surrounding sediment during fossilization influence the resulting color of the fossilized shark tooth.
Examples
- A newly shed great white shark tooth found on a beach would likely be white.
- A fossilized Megalodon tooth discovered in a riverbed would likely be black or a dark shade of grey.
Summary
While modern shark teeth are generally white, fossilized shark teeth are often black or dark-colored due to the permineralization process.
