Megalodon Shark Tooth
Megalodon, meaning “big tooth” in Ancient Greek, is an extinct species of shark that lived approximately 28 to 1.5 million years ago.
The Megalodon is considered one of the largest and most powerful predators in vertebrate history. They are believed to have been most common in subtropical and temperate latitudes. It is believed that prior to the formation of the Isthmus of Panama, the seas were warmer, which sustained the species. While speculation continues about why they became extinct, it is most commonly believed to be related to the cooling of the oceans.
Scientists believe that some Megalodons grew to lengths approaching 60 feet and weighed as much as 100 tons. In appearance, the Megalodon likely resembled a much larger, stockier version of the great white shark. It is also believed that this species of shark was one of the most formidable carnivores to ever exist. It not only had tremendous size, but also had high-speed swimming ability, and powerful jaws that could apply force up to ten times greater than a modern Great White Shark.
The Megalodon is considered one of the largest and most powerful predators in vertebrate history. They are believed to have been most common in subtropical and temperate latitudes. It is believed that prior to the formation of the Isthmus of Panama, the seas were warmer, which sustained the species. While speculation continues about why they became extinct, it is most commonly believed to be related to the cooling of the oceans.
Scientists believe that some Megalodons grew to lengths approaching 60 feet and weighed as much as 100 tons. In appearance, the Megalodon likely resembled a much larger, stockier version of the great white shark. It is also believed that this species of shark was one of the most formidable carnivores to ever exist. It not only had tremendous size, but also had high-speed swimming ability, and powerful jaws that could apply force up to ten times greater than a modern Great White Shark.
The tooth specimen owned is 4.19 inches in length and 2.85 inches wide. Based on the size of the tooth, it is estimated that the Megalodon from which the tooth originated was likely greater than 30 feet in length.