In a recent study, scientists at the State Museum in Trenton delved into the mysterious world of the extinct megalodon, a massive shark species. Exploring creatures without close living relatives poses challenges, as stated by the museum’s expert, who highlights the uncertainty in recreating their appearance or behaviour.
The study, while innovative, still draws inspiration from great white sharks, particularly in analysing vertebrae patterns. Vertebrate palaeontologist Michael Gottfried, part of the team that reconstructed a Belgian megalodon specimen in the 1990s, expresses caution about accuracy due to incomplete or fragmentary vertebrae.
“Ultimately, we are still speculating on body form and many other aspects of megalodon,” says Gottfried. He emphasises the need for additional fossil material, especially from the head and fins, to enhance understanding of the giant shark’s appearance. The quest to unveil the secrets of the megalodon continues, with researchers navigating the challenges of reconstructing a creature lost to time.
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