After years of puzzling over incomplete fragments, paleontologists have finally cracked the code on a prehistoric shark mystery, thanks to the discovery of exceptionally complete fossil skeletons in Mexico. These remains belong to Cretoxyrhina mantelli, a species that has long been a scientific enigma.
Scientists had previously only encountered isolated pieces of cartilage, vertebrae, and teeth of Cretoxyrhina, leaving them with a limited understanding of its overall appearance and behavior. However, the newly unearthed specimens, found in limestone quarries in Nuevo León, Mexico, have filled in the missing pieces.
The study, published in the journal Palaeontology, reveals that Cretoxyrhina could grow to a staggering 33 feet in length, making it a close relative of today’s great white sharks. Its distinctive grinding teeth suggest that it preyed on hard-shelled creatures.
The discovery of these complete specimens has allowed scientists to reconstruct Cretoxyrhina’s anatomy in detail. They now know that it was a fast swimmer, likely hunting in open waters. This contradicts previous hypotheses that it fed on seafloor-dwelling invertebrates.
Based on their findings, the researchers believe that Cretoxyrhina belonged to the order Lamniformes, which also includes modern shark species like the great white, mackerel, and thresher sharks. This relationship highlights the vulnerability of these apex predators, as evidenced by the current threats facing sharks and rays worldwide.
The study’s authors emphasize that Cretoxyrhina’s extinct status serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the potential consequences of human actions on apex predators.
