The Megalodon's Surprising Slenderness

Recent studies reveal that the Megalodon, a prehistoric shark, was slimmer than previously thought. Resembling a giant lemon shark more than an oversized great white, the Megalodon reached lengths over 24 meters and weighed approximately 94 tons.

Newborns were already formidable hunters at 3.5-4 meters long. Research led by Kenshu Shimada compared the Megalodon's spine with 165 shark species, highlighting its unique proportions.

Despite a lack of complete skeletons, vertebral findings suggest some individuals exceeded 24 meters. Unlike the high-speed predator depicted in films like 'Meg' and 'Meg 2: The Trench', the Megalodon was likely built for energy-efficient travel.

This conclusion is supported by experts like Timo Moritz, reinforcing that the Megalodon was not a mere giant white shark but a uniquely adapted predator of the seas.