National Megalodon Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

National Megalodon Day is observed annually on June 15. The megalodon was one of the largest apex predators ever to exist. It is not surprising that this megatoothed shark continues to captivate and rule the imagination. Its enormous, serrated teeth — all 276 of them — ensured its position at the summit of the food chain for over 20 million years. What became of this dinosaur shark? Does it still linger in the ocean’s depths?

The background of National Megalodon Day

The earliest fossils of megalodon trace back 20 million years. The megalodon ruled the oceans until its extinction 3.6 million years ago. It was not only the largest shark, but also the largest fish in the globe. At least 49 to 59 feet in length. That is three times the length of the longest great white shark ever documented.

Now let’s discuss those canines. Scientists have discovered fossils with at least seven-inch-long Megalodon molars. The word’megalodon’ literally means ‘large tooth.’ Therefore, it is safe to say that Megalodon teeth assume precedence in any discussion.

A fish of this size required a great deal of sustenance. Huge, serrated teeth capable of tearing through any form of meat. Scientists believe that the megalodon fed on dolphins, other sharks, and humpback whales. Their mouths were capable of engulfing two adult humans side by side.

Scientists have not yet uncovered a complete Megalodon skeleton. Although numerous reconstructions depict it as a larger version of the great white shark, this is primarily inaccurate. Long ago, many individuals believed that the two were related. Current research disproves this hypothesis. The megalodon belongs to a distinct lineage of sharks, of which it is the sole survivor.

Could the megalodon still exist somewhere in the ocean’s depths? Extremely unlikely. Megalodon became extinct approximately 2.6 million years ago, when the planet’s temperature began to decline. We do not know precisely when or how, but there are hypotheses. Perhaps cooler temperatures destroyed their habitat. Perhaps the extinction of the megalodon’s prey hastened its demise.

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NATIONAL MEGALODON DAY ACTIVITIES

Visit a museum

National Megalodon Day is not complete without a visit to the museum. Plan a trip to the nearest fossil museum or make a beeline for it wherever one exists.

Study up

There is a wealth of intriguing megalodon research available online. Today, learn more about this intriguing animal.

Bust some misconceptions

Today is an excellent time to refute misinformation about the megalodon, specifically that the giant shark still exists. Share studies and research. Help dispel the myth with scientific evidence.