Introduction

In a startling revelation, researchers are questioning the authenticity of a newly identified species of mosasaur, named *Xenodens calminechari*, believed to be about 72.1 to 66 million years old. Initially described in 2021 from fossils discovered in a phosphate mine in Morocco's Khouribga province, new evidence suggests that these fossils may actually be forgeries.

Research Findings

Analyzing the remains, researchers have raised "red flags" regarding discrepancies that could indicate the partial jawbone and its accompanying teeth are not genuine. The team, led by Henry Sharpe from the University of Alberta, is advocating for comprehensive computed tomography (CT) scans to assess the fossil’s validity and potentially expose it as a fraudulent specimen. Sharpe emphasizes the importance of addressing these discrepancies, stating, "If this fossil is indeed a forgery, it should be established in the published literature that this is a fake."

Original Description

Initially, the 2021 research team hailed the unique tooth structure of *X. calminechari*, which they claimed featured “small, short, blade-like teeth” producing a rare saw-like cutting edge—a feature purportedly unseen in other mosasaurs or vertebrates. Mosasaurs were dominant aquatic predators during the Cretaceous period, with lengths ranging from 10 to 50 feet (3 to 15 meters) and diverse feeding habits reflected in their varied tooth shapes.

Inconsistencies in Findings

However, the new study, published on December 16, 2024, in *The Anatomical Record*, reveals crucial biological inconsistencies. Notably, the presence of two closely clustered teeth in a single socket conflicts with the known anatomy of other mosasaurs, where each tooth typically occupies its individual socket. This unusual arrangement raises significant doubts about the fossil's authenticity, as study co-author Michael Caldwell explains that each tooth develops its socket from the jawbone, making the presence of double teeth impossible in a genuine specimen.

Evidence of Forgery

Furthermore, the teeth display abnormal medial overlap, suggesting improper implantation—a clear signal of possible forgery. The researchers point out that the provenance of the fossil is suspect, as it was not excavated by professional paleontologists. The phosphate mine in question has a reputation for yielding fakes.

Ethical Concerns Raised

Attempts to reach out to Nick Longrich, the University of Bath paleontologist and lead author of the original 2021 study, have proven to be contentious. According to Sharpe, Longrich's inquiry regarding their motives and the direction of their research raised ethical concerns about withholding information on an important specimen. "That's totally unethical that he would even request that," Sharpe asserted.

Independent Validation

Independent paleontologist Paulina Jiménez-Huidobro of the University of Bonn, although not affiliated with either study, concurs with the findings of the latest research, noting that the abnormal dentition suggests a more serious connection to potential forgery. "It is unfortunate that *Xenodens* could not be scanned," she emphasized, calling CT technology critical for examining internal structures and differentiating materials effectively.

Conclusion

This development raises urgent questions about the integrity of fossil discoveries in the region and highlights the need for rigorous verification processes in paleontological research—a stark reminder that not all old bones found in the earth tell the true story of our planet's past. As further investigations unfold, the paleontological community watches closely, awaiting definitive proof that may either validate or debunk this extraordinary discovery.