Megalodon

The megalodon was one of the largest sharks that ever lived. Its scientific name is Otodus megalodon, and it existed from about 23 million to 3.6 million years ago, during the Miocene and early Pliocene periods. This giant predator lived in oceans around the world, where it hunted large marine animals, including whales.

Scientists estimate that it could have reached around 15 to 20 meters in length, although its exact size remains uncertain because only fossilized teeth and some rare remains have been found. Its teeth could measure more than 15 centimeters long, allowing it to bite through the tough bodies of large prey.

Unlike modern sharks, the megalodon has no complete skeleton preserved because its body was made mostly of cartilage, which does not fossilize easily. Researchers study its teeth and compare them with those of living sharks to understand its size, diet, and hunting methods.

The megalodon disappeared millions of years ago, probably because of changes in ocean conditions, climate, and the decline of some of its prey. Although it no longer exists, this prehistoric shark remains an important subject of scientific research and continues to help us understand the history of marine life.