Journey back 130–150 million years into Earth’s ancient oceans and come face-to-face with one of the most fearsome predators ever to swim the seas—the Dunkleosteus. This massive, armor-plated fish ruled prehistoric waters long before dinosaurs walked the land, using its razor-sharp, self-sharpening jaw plates to snap shut with incredible speed.
Unlike modern predators, Dunkleosteus couldn’t chew. Instead, it swallowed prey in huge chunks—sometimes even other Dunkleosteus when food was scarce. Fossil evidence of partially digested prey makes this ancient fish as scientifically fascinating as it is intimidating. Named after paleontologist David Dunkle, this creature blends real science with awe-inspiring legend.
The Schleich® Dunkleosteus figurine captures the power, armor, and mystery of this prehistoric giant, bringing ancient seas to life through hands-on play and discovery.
Why Kids (and Parents) Love It
A True Apex Predator – Introduces children to prehistoric life beyond dinosaurs
Science-Inspired Design – Features armored plates and powerful jaw details
Durable & Detailed – Built for active play and long-term learning
Imagination Meets Education – Encourages curiosity about ancient oceans and evolution
Product Details
Recommended Age: 4–12 years
Dimensions: 8.5 x 3.5 x 2.6 inches
Pieces: 1 Dunkleosteus figurine
Material: High-quality, durable plastic (BPA-free)
Brand: Schleich®
Product ID: 14575
Age-Appropriate Play & Learning
Ages 4–6 | Ocean Adventurers
Imaginative underwater storytelling
Learning new words like “armor,” “predator,” and “prehistoric”
Fine motor skill development
Ages 7–9 | Junior Fossil Hunters
Exploring ancient marine food chains
Comparing prehistoric fish to modern sharks
Creative habitat-building play
Ages 10–12 | Deep-Time Thinkers
Studying adaptation, extinction, and evolution
Pairing with books, fossils, and science units
Displaying as part of a curated prehistoric collection
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Was Dunkleosteus a dinosaur?
A: No. Dunkleosteus was a prehistoric armored fish, living millions of years before dinosaurs appeared.
Q: Did Dunkleosteus really eat sharks?
A: Yes! Fossil evidence suggests it preyed on large sharks and other armored fish, and even its own species.
Q: Is this figurine safe for children?
A: Absolutely. Designed for ages 4 and up, it’s made with sturdy, child-safe materials and meets strict safety standards.
Q: Is this model educationally accurate?
A: Schleich® designs its figures using scientific research and expert input, resulting in realistic and engaging models.
Q: Can this be used in classrooms or homeschool settings?
A: Yes! It’s ideal for homeschool science units, classrooms, Montessori-aligned shelves, and ocean studies.
Rule the Ancient Seas
Add the Schleich® Dunkleosteus (Product ID: 14575) to your collection and let children explore a time when armored giants ruled the oceans—where science, imagination, and discovery collide.
