Coprolites (fossilized feces) preserve a wide range of biogenic components, from bacteria and spores to a variety of vertebrate
tissues. Two coprolites from the Calvert Cliffs outcrop belt (Miocene-aged Chesapeake Group), MD, USA, preserve shark tooth
impressions in the form of partial dental arcades. The specimens are the first known coprolites to preserve vertebrate tooth
marks. They provide another example of trace fossils providing evidence of prehistoric animal behaviors that cannot be directly
approached through the study of body fossils. Shark behaviors that could account for these impressions include: (1) aborted
coprophagy, (2) benthic or nektonic exploration, or (3) predation.
Keywords Coprolites - Miocene - Carcharhinidae - Chesapeake Group - Calvert Cliffs