Livyatan melvillei is an extinct species of predatory cetacean that lived during the Miocene, approximately 12-13 million years ago. It is named after Leviathan, a mythological sea creature mentioned in the Bible, and Herman Melville, the author of the novel "Moby-Dick." This cetacean belonged to the sperm whale family, but differed in several key aspects from modern sperm whale species.
Outstanding features of Livyatan melvillei:
Impressive size: Livyatan was one of the largest known marine predators. It is estimated that it was similar in size to the current killer whale (Orcinus orca), measuring around 13-17 meters in length.
Colossal Teeth: Unlike modern sperm whales that have teeth only in their lower jaws, Livyatan melvillei had enormous teeth in both jaws. Its teeth were conical, robust and sharp, and some of them reached exceptional sizes, exceeding 30 centimeters in length.
Predator Role: Livyatan is believed to have been a high-level predator in the ancient oceans. Its teeth and robust jaw structure suggest it was well adapted for hunting large game, possibly other smaller cetaceans, seals, and other marine animals.
Marine Life Form: Although resembling modern sperm whales in some respects, Livyatan melvillei would have occupied a different ecological niche due to its unique tooth structure and impressive size. It is believed that it lived in temperate and warm waters and would have been part of the marine food chain.
Fossils and discovery: Fossils of Livyatan melvillei have been found in different places around the world, including Peru, Chile and other places in South America. Fossil remains include teeth and bone fragments that have allowed paleontologists to reconstruct their appearance and behavior.
Approximate measurements of the Lyviatan:
Outstanding features of Livyatan melvillei:
Impressive size: Livyatan was one of the largest known marine predators. It is estimated that it was similar in size to the current killer whale (Orcinus orca), measuring around 13-17 meters in length.
Colossal Teeth: Unlike modern sperm whales that have teeth only in their lower jaws, Livyatan melvillei had enormous teeth in both jaws. Its teeth were conical, robust and sharp, and some of them reached exceptional sizes, exceeding 30 centimeters in length.
Predator Role: Livyatan is believed to have been a high-level predator in the ancient oceans. Its teeth and robust jaw structure suggest it was well adapted for hunting large game, possibly other smaller cetaceans, seals, and other marine animals.
Marine Life Form: Although resembling modern sperm whales in some respects, Livyatan melvillei would have occupied a different ecological niche due to its unique tooth structure and impressive size. It is believed that it lived in temperate and warm waters and would have been part of the marine food chain.
Fossils and discovery: Fossils of Livyatan melvillei have been found in different places around the world, including Peru, Chile and other places in South America. Fossil remains include teeth and bone fragments that have allowed paleontologists to reconstruct their appearance and behavior.
Approximate measurements of the Lyviatan:
- Scale 1:80 - 170 mm (Complete)
- Scale 1:35 - 400 mm (Assembly Kit)
