The Megalodon Shark was the largest predator that has ever lived. It reached a length of up to 60-70 feet and an approximate maximum weight of 60 tons. The largest individual measured up to 58.7 feet in length.
It is a popular belief that Megalodon is closely related to the Great White Shark which is not true. The Megalodon Shark was first described based on fossil teeth in 1843. The term Megalodon has been derived from Greek meaning ‘giant tooth’.
Quick Facts: –
- The oldest Megalodon fossils are from the Miocene Epoch, which began 23 million years ago.
- Fossil remains of these sharks have been found off the coast of every continent except Antarctica.
- This shark was an apex predator in the ocean and preyed upon fish, whales, dolphins, seals, and other marine animals.
- It has been estimated that this shark may have had to consume over a ton of food per day to sustain itself.
- It had the most powerful bite of any known animal. The bite force had been estimated between 24,000 to 40,000 pounds.
- They had a total of 276 teeth in 5 rows. These teeth kept replacing themselves when they became worn.
- The scientific name of this shark is Carcharocles megalodon.
- During the peak of their existence, they could be found in oceans all around the world.
- These sharks gave birth to their young in shallow water environments.
