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Fossil Reveals Fatal Predator Encounter in Cretaceous Ocean

3/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A four-meter Polycotylus fossil from Alabama carries a large tooth embedded in its neck vertebra, indicating a fatal encounter with predatory fish Xiphactinus.
The discovery shows Cretaceous oceans were perilous for top predators.
Experts note the bite would have been fatal.
The findings in the Mooreville Chalk formation illuminate predator-prey interactions and frequent attacks.

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Story summary

A four-meter Polycotylus fossil from Alabama carries a large tooth embedded in its neck vertebra, indicating a fatal encounter with predatory fish Xiphactinus.
The discovery shows Cretaceous oceans were perilous for top predators.
Experts note the bite would have been fatal.
The findings in the Mooreville Chalk formation illuminate predator-prey interactions and frequent attacks.