Megalodon, scientifically known as Otodus megalodon, was an extinct giant mackerel shark that dominated the oceans from the Early Miocene to the Early Pliocene epochs, approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago. The name “megalodon” itself means “big tooth,” an apt descriptor for this colossal predator.
Size and Appearance
Megalodon was one of the largest fish ever to exist, with estimates suggesting it grew to between 15 and 18 metres in length. Some estimations even reach a maximum of 20.3 meters (67 ft). To put that in perspective, it was about three times longer than the largest recorded great white shark. Its weight is estimated between 50 to 75 tons. A 16-meter megalodon would have a 4.65 m long head, 1.41 m tall gill slits, a 1.62 m tall dorsal fin, 3.08 m long pectoral fins, and a 3.85 m tall tail fin.
For a long time, megalodon was believed to be a close relative of the great white shark and was thought to look like a bigger version of it. However, current understanding suggests that megalodon had a shorter nose and longer pectoral fins compared to the great white.
Diet and Hunting
With its large size, megalodon needed to consume a lot of food. It is believed that megalodon primarily fed on whales, large fish, and other sharks. Fossilised whale bones have been discovered with cut marks from megalodon teeth etched into the surface, providing direct evidence of its feeding habits. Megalodon’s teeth were thick and robust, built for grabbing prey and breaking bone. The shark may have been able to open its mouth to a 75° angle, or even a 100° angle.
Megalodon likely employed different hunting strategies compared to the great white shark. While great whites typically target the underbelly of their prey, megalodon probably targeted the heart and lungs of its victims, using its strong jaws and thick teeth to bite through tough bone.
Habitat and Distribution
Megalodon had a cosmopolitan distribution, with fossils discovered in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Australia. They most commonly occurred in subtropical to temperate latitudes. Megalodon teeth have been found on every continent except Antarctica.
Extinction
Megalodon became extinct around 3.6 million years ago. The cooling of the planet, resulting in a loss of habitat and the extinction or migration of its prey, likely contributed to its demise. Competition with whale-eating cetaceans and possibly smaller ancestral killer whales may have also played a role. Additionally, competition with great white sharks for food may have contributed to megalodon’s extinction.
Misconceptions and Pop Culture
Despite its extinction millions of years ago, some people believe that megalodon could still be alive in unexplored parts of the ocean. However, scientists say that it would be difficult to miss a nearshore shark of that size with a taste for whales.
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