Carcharocles chubutensis is an extinct species of shark that belongs to the genus Carcharocles. It lived during the Miocene, approximately between 23 and 5 million years ago. This prehistoric shark is known to be one of the largest marine predators that have existed in Earth's history.
Carcharocles chubutensis is considered a close relative of the better known Carcharocles megalodon. Although they share many similarities in terms of morphology and lifestyle, C. chubutensis is recognized as a distinct species based on specific differences in the shape of its teeth and other anatomical characteristics.
Fossils of Carcharocles chubutensis have been discovered in various parts of the world, but especially in South America, including the Chubut region in Argentina, where its specific name comes from. Fossilized teeth are the main evidence for the existence of this giant shark, and these teeth show a striking resemblance to those of the megalodon, although they are often slightly smaller in comparison.
The teeth of C. chubutensis are triangular, serrated and robust, adapted for tearing meat. Like its megalodon relative, it is believed that this shark hunted large prey, such as marine mammals and other large marine animals. Its size would have been impressive, with estimates suggesting it could reach lengths of up to 12 meters or more.
The extinction of Carcharocles chubutensis and other megalodon sharks is believed to have occurred at the end of the Miocene or during the Pliocene, around 5 million years ago. The exact reasons for its disappearance are not completely clear, but it has been speculated that changes in climate and prey availability could have contributed to its decline.
Approximate measurements of C. chubutensis:
Carcharocles chubutensis is considered a close relative of the better known Carcharocles megalodon. Although they share many similarities in terms of morphology and lifestyle, C. chubutensis is recognized as a distinct species based on specific differences in the shape of its teeth and other anatomical characteristics.
Fossils of Carcharocles chubutensis have been discovered in various parts of the world, but especially in South America, including the Chubut region in Argentina, where its specific name comes from. Fossilized teeth are the main evidence for the existence of this giant shark, and these teeth show a striking resemblance to those of the megalodon, although they are often slightly smaller in comparison.
The teeth of C. chubutensis are triangular, serrated and robust, adapted for tearing meat. Like its megalodon relative, it is believed that this shark hunted large prey, such as marine mammals and other large marine animals. Its size would have been impressive, with estimates suggesting it could reach lengths of up to 12 meters or more.
The extinction of Carcharocles chubutensis and other megalodon sharks is believed to have occurred at the end of the Miocene or during the Pliocene, around 5 million years ago. The exact reasons for its disappearance are not completely clear, but it has been speculated that changes in climate and prey availability could have contributed to its decline.
Approximate measurements of C. chubutensis:
- Scale 1:35
- Length 230mm
- Height 97mm
- Snout-tail length 295 mm
