Image via J. J. Giraldo
Probably the biggest shark to ever live, the Megalodon was a true apex predator. At this point, it’s probably very extinct (I hope), but new studies have shown that it might have been even more intense than we believed.
A study done in collaboration with University of Zurich researchers suggests that megalodons were so big, they “could fully consume prey the size of today’s killer whales.”
A 3D model of the megalodon showed that one specimen reached 52 feet and weighed in at over 61 tons. Basically, it’s a very, very, very big shark. It would also mean that its stomach and caloric needs were larger as well.
“These results suggest that the megalodon could travel long distances and was capable of eating whole prey of up to 8 meters long.”
Although we have some information on the megalodon, there’s still not a lot due to a lack of many fossils out there. Many illustrations of the megalodon showcase it as looking like a really big version of the great white shark.
The researchers were able to build the model from a rare vertebral column of a megalodon fossil found way back in the 1860s. The megalodon in question had lived close to Belgium and died about 18 million years ago. The fossil is considered “one of a kind.”
Using megalodon teeth and the vertebrae, the researchers were able to create a 3D model of what the megalodon might have actually looked like. Researchers also suggested that the megalodon shark could’ve eaten a killer-whale-sized animal and would not need to eat again for another two months.
Imagine swimming with that thing lurking out there. Thank goodness it’s extinct.
Right?
Thanks for reading DZSH. Never miss an update when you sign up for our newsletter today!
Zainah Yousef
Zainah Yousef is the author of The Fallen Age Saga and specializes in gaming, social media advice, and reviews. She's been writing all her life and she probably won't stop anytime soon.
