Megalodon

Part of Hall of Vertebrate Origins.

Fossilized megalodon jaw with sharp, triangular teeth hanging from the ceiling. Alvaro Keding/© AMNH

Evolution of sharks can be traced back over 400 million years. The most famous extinct shark is Carcharodon megalodon. This animal, which lived in the seas 10 million years ago, easily dwarfed modern white sharks.

Fossilized Carcharodon teeth are found all around the world, but some of the best preserved are from North Carolina, like those exhibited at the Museum.

The Megalodon is featured in our list of Highlights. Check out the rest of our must-see exhibits!