Giant Shark Fossil Rewrites History! New Discovery Reveals Early Mega-Sharks

Dive into the incredible world of ancient sharks! This video explores a groundbreaking discovery: a 115-million-year-old fossil of a gigantic lamniform shark, predating previously known mega-sharks by 15 million years. Learn how this find, led by researchers from Stanford University and Columbus State University, is reshaping our understanding of shark evolution. We'll examine the 6 to 8 meter long fossil, weighing over 3 tons, and discuss the implications for understanding the environmental factors that drove sharks to such colossal sizes. Discover the research process, from museum specimens to published findings in Communications Biology, and the impact of this discovery on the future of ichthyology. Featuring insights from Dr. Mike Newbrey and the inspiring story of Tatianna Blake, a former student turned published researcher.
Key points:
Discovery of a new extinct lamniform shark.
Fossil age: 115 million years old.
Estimated size: 6-8 meters long, over 3 tons.
Research team from Stanford and Columbus State University.
Rewrites the timeline of mega-body size evolution.
Implications for understanding environmental influences on shark size.