A new study has revealed that the Megalodon, an ancient predator that lived 15 to 3.6 million years ago, may have reached lengths of up to 80 feet rather than the previously estimated 65 feet. This research, led by Professor Kenshu Shimada and a team of experts, utilized fossil remains primarily focusing on the vertebrae and teeth of the Megalodon, suggesting a more streamlined and energy-efficient physique akin to that of a lemon shark. This discovery reshapes our understanding of one of history's largest marine predators.
"The length of 24.3 meters is currently the largest possible reasonable estimate for O. megalodon that can be justified based on science and the present fossil record," said lead author Professor Kenshu Shimada at DePaul University, Chicago.
Their results reveal a more accurate proportion for the Megalodon's head, body, and tail, indicating it more likely resembled today's lemon shark, which has a slimmer body.
Together they analysed the Megalodon's vertebral column and compared it to more than 100 species of living and extinct sharks.
Megalodon swam through the oceans from about 15 to 3.6 million years ago, demonstrating a significant evolution in our understanding of its size and structure.
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