Fossil Jaw Section – Leptomeryx sp. (Early Deer) – White River Group, Wyoming – UV Reactive

An authentic fossil jaw section from the extinct early deer relative Leptomeryx sp., recovered from the famous White River Group of Wyoming. Dating to the Oligocene Epoch (approximately 23–34 million years ago), this specimen preserves a beautifully defined row of original cheek teeth, showcasing the intricate enamel ridges that made these small herbivores highly efficient browsers.

The preserved molars exhibit excellent occlusal detail, making this an outstanding educational and collectible specimen. The White River Formation is world-renowned for preserving one of North America's richest Oligocene fossil faunas, and Leptomeryx remains are among its most recognizable small mammal fossils.

A particularly interesting feature of this specimen is its ultraviolet response. Under a 365 nm UV light, the fossilized teeth fluoresce a vivid orange while portions of the surrounding fossil matrix display a contrasting blue fluorescence. This natural fluorescence results from mineral replacement during fossilization and creates an impressive display under ultraviolet light.

Whether displayed in a fossil collection, educational exhibit, or UV mineral display, this specimen offers an excellent combination of paleontology, preservation quality, and fluorescence.

Specifications

• Species: Leptomeryx sp.
• Common Name: Early Deer
• Formation: White River Group
• Age: Oligocene Epoch (approximately 23–34 million years old)
• Locality: Wyoming, USA
• Weight: 4 grams
• Dimensions: 1.03 × 0.63 × 0.50 inches
• Authentic fossil jaw section
• Well-preserved molar teeth
• Teeth fluoresce orange under 365 nm UV
• Matrix exhibits blue fluorescence under 365 nm UV
• Display case and identification label included
• Exact specimen shown

Paleontological Notes

Leptomeryx was a small hoofed mammal belonging to an extinct family related to modern ruminants. Roughly the size of a rabbit or small gazelle, it inhabited wooded floodplains and open forests that covered much of western North America during the Oligocene. Its specialized grinding teeth were adapted for feeding on leaves, shoots, and other vegetation, providing valuable insight into the changing ecosystems following the age of the dinosaurs.

The White River Group is internationally recognized for producing exceptionally preserved fossil mammals and serves as one of the most important windows into North America's ancient terrestrial ecosystems.

Collector Notes

Small mammal jaw sections with complete tooth rows are highly collectible because they clearly display the diagnostic dental anatomy used by paleontologists for identification. The added 365 nm ultraviolet fluorescence makes this specimen especially appealing to collectors who appreciate fossils with unique display characteristics.

Professionally packaged and shipped from Colorado.

You will receive the exact specimen shown.

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