Otodus megalodon (/ ˈmɛɡələdɒn / MEG-əl-ə-don; meaning "big tooth"), commonly known as megalodon, is an extinct species of giant mackerel shark that lived approximately 23 to 3.58 million years ago (Mya), from the Early Miocene to the Early Pliocene epochs. This prehistoric fish was once thought to be a member of the family Lamnidae and a close relative of the great white shark ...
Megalodon, member of an extinct species of megatooth shark (Otodontidae) considered to be the largest shark, and the largest fish, that ever lived. Fossils attributed to megalodon dating from the early Miocene to the end of the Pliocene have been found in tropical and temperate marine environments worldwide.
Carcharocles megalodon was once the most fearsome predator to reign the seas. This ancient shark lived roughly 23 to 3.6 million years ago in nearly every corner of the ocean. Roughly up to 3 times the length of a modern-day great white shark, it is the largest shark to have ever lived. It had a powerful bite with a jaw full of teeth as large as an adult human’s hand. They likely could tear ...
How big is a megalodon shark? Does megalodon still exist? Our fossil fish expert Emma Bernard cuts through the hype and reveals facts about the largest shark that ever lived, from size and diet to its awe-inspiring teeth and where to find them.
The name “megalodon” is a Greek-derived word meaning “giant tooth.” It's an apt name, considering megalodons’ teeth could be up to 7 inches long. Megalodons had hundreds of these giant ...
A shadowy shape is visible in the distance, just under the surface of the ocean. The shadow swims closer, revealing itself to be a shark—an incredibly massive shark. Weighing as much as 30 large great white sharks, the megalodon is one frightening-looking fish. Luckily, it went extinct some 2.5 million years ago, so you don’t have to worry about seeing one today!