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Hello All, I originally intended to send this to a few individuals whom I have heard are either directly or indirectly involved with the biggest, most complete Acrocanthosaurus currently being studied but I now feel that any replies to the following may be of interest to other members. Please forgive the cross-posting While I do not wish to get into the 'fossil dealer' debate (and NO! I did not buy any fossils, only a couple casts) I did arrange to visit the fossil dealer who owns the beast. The Graffhams were very cordial and open about the specimen and knew I was there for principally academic reasons, and had a beautifully mounted Acro skull. I happened to have brought a selection of large theropod teeth that I have foundrecently in the Arundel Formation and have suspected for about three or four years now that they may be related to Acro's being that the Arundel is virtually contemporaneous with the Antlers Fm, Cloverly Fm., and the Trinity to name a few. The teeth compare very well in size, serration type and cross section! I am convinced that along with Deinonychids, Astrodon and other non dinosaurian fauna, that Acrocanthosaurs were present on the east coast of the US. Question. While salivating over this cast, and comparing specimens, I happened to count the premax teeth. There were 4 large fangs rostrally and two very short almost stubby (~ 4-5 cm) teeth on the premax side of the suture between the premax and maxillary for a total of 6 premaxillary teeth. Has anyone else noticed this? Prior to my seeing the specimen, I had heard from someone a pm count of 4 or 5. I checked my photos of the specimen and I am sure that is what I saw. I would appreciate any input on this or any other aspect of Acrocanthosaurs (Carcharodontosauridae) you my wish to contribute. Regards, Thomas R. Lipka Paleontological/Geological Studies
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