New shark species discovered at Kentucky's Mammoth Cave National Park

Ray Padilla, Louisville Courier Journal
·1 min read
A new illustration of Strigilodus tollesonae created specially by artist Benji Paysnoe. The new species is more closely related to modern ratfish than to other modern sharks and rays.
A new illustration of Strigilodus tollesonae created specially by artist Benji Paysnoe. The new species is more closely related to modern ratfish than to other modern sharks and rays.

A new shark species has been discovered within a rock layer at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, according to the National Park Service.

The new species of petalodont, or "petal-toothed" shark, was discovered within the Ste. Genevieve Formation at Mammoth Cave after several small spoon-like teeth were discovered in the cave wall and ceiling.

The findings were announced Wednesday during National Fossil Day, a day to celebrate and promote the scientific and educational values of fossils.

“We are excited to finally announce the discovery of our first new shark species at Mammoth Cave on NFD,” Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Barclay Trimble said. “Teams of geologists, paleontologist, park staff, and volunteers have been hard at work deep inside the cave identifying and collecting fossils since the paleontological resources inventory began in 2019.

"Their important research allows us to better understand the scope, significance, distribution, and management issues associated with the fossil record found within Mammoth Cave," he said.

The name Strigilodus tollesonae, or "Tolleson's Scraper Tooth," was bestowed on the discovery in honor of Mammoth Cave National Park guide Kelli Tolleson, who provided outstanding field support for the paleontological resource inventory, officials said.

Tolleson discovered many important fossil localities through her work and led expeditions to the fossil sites — which were located in several remote locations within the park.

Mammoth Cave National Park will celebrate the Strigilodus tollesonae discovery and other types of fossils found within the cave system on Monday.

During their celebration, paleontologists, educators and park guides will present fossil-related activities to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations.

More information about the Mammoth Cave event will be released closer to the event date.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: New ancient shark species discovered in KY's Mammoth Cave