JAW–dropping scientific discovery – proof the meg is lurking in the deep ocean!
Researchers are thrilled to announce the shocking discovery of a living Megalodon—a massive, elusive deep-sea shark once thought to be extinct. The species was found by fishermen local to Funaya Ine, a fishing village on the Japanese coast. This juvenile “meg” was tangled in their trawling nets, and after a fight to bring the fishing gear in, the men realized this was a shark they had never seen before. It was later brought to scientists at Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology for examination.
Upon receiving the specimen, scientists were stunned to realize this was not just a relative of the historic 60 ft shark, Otodus megalodon—it was a megalodon. Though juvenile, the shark bore unmistakable features: nearly identical teeth to fossilized megalodon remains, a massive jaw, and an enormous, flabby build suited for the deep ocean. Unlike previous assumptions that the Megalodon could not survive modern oceans, this individual exhibited key deep-sea adaptations: thin, gelatinous skin, large pectoral fins, and a body designed to withstand immense pressure. Dissection revealed high concentrations of piezolytes—molecules found in deep-sea creatures that protect cells in high-pressure environments. Further DNA testing confirmed it: this shark is not just a cousin, but a living Meg, proving the species has survived in the depths, hidden from the human eye.
Megalodon At-A-Glance
Scientific Name: Otodus megalodon
What size do Megs get?
The individual discovered was 9 ft (2.7 m) as a juvenile – recently born. Based on jaw circumference and tooth spacing, scientists estimate this shark could grow up to 70 ft or more in full maturity.
Where do Megalodons live?
The Megalodon is believed to be a pelagic traveler, living primarily in deep-sea habitats. This likely explains why it has evaded detection for so long.
What do Megss eat?
Researchers believe the Meg has similar hunting habits to the Great White shark—eating marine mammals, sea turtles, other sharks, and bony fish. The caught specimen had remains of seals and fish in its stomach, confirming a diverse diet.
How do Megalodons reproduce?
Like other Lamniform sharks, Megs give birth to live young (viviparity).
How long do Megalodons live?
Based on growth rings in vertebrae (like tree rings), the 9-ft juvenile meg was extremely young. Perhaps born within the last month. With this method, scientists estimate these sharks can live for decades, possibly up to 100 years.
What is the IUCN conservation status?
Due to its newly confirmed existence, the Meg is classified as “Data Deficient” More research is needed to determine its population size and conservation status.
Do any laws exist protecting Megss?
As a newly rediscovered species, current laws don’t specifically protect Megalodons—but it now falls under general shark conservation protections.
Frequently Asked Questions about Megs:
Is the Megalodon real?
Yes. Not just a cousin—it is a Meg. This discovery confirms the species still exists.
Is the Megalodon dangerous to humans?
Possibly. Due to their size, Megs could pose a threat. However, since they live in deep-sea environments, humans are unlikely to ever encounter one.
How has no one found the Megalodon before?
They live in deep, remote ocean zones rarely explored by humans. The juvenile discovered likely became lost or curious and swam into shallower waters. They’ve mastered the art of staying hidden. Think of them as the ultimate hide-and-seek champions of the sea.
What does the Meg eat?
Anything it wants! Mostly whales, giant squids, sea turtles, and massive fish. It’s the ultimate apex predator.
How big is the Megalodon?
They grow up to 70 feet long (that’s two school buses!) and weigh around 50 tons. Basically, it makes a great white shark look like a guppy.
How does the Meg hunt?
Like a stealth bomber. It sneaks up from below and slams into prey with bone-crushing force. Boom—dinner is served.
Can the Megalodon breach like a great white?
Absolutely. Despite its size, it can rocket out of the water in a terrifying, slow-motion leap. Trust us, you don’t want to be near that splash zone.
Is the Megalodon dangerous to humans?
Let’s just say you wouldn’t want to meet one while snorkeling. Humans aren’t on their menu, but we’re not off-limits either.
How will scientists study Megalodons?
Through deep-sea research, tracking sonar, and, of course, teeth—massive ones that wash ashore or are found embedded in whale bones.
Bet you didn’t know this about the Meg….
- Its babies are already massive. A newborn Meg measures 6 to 11 feet long. That’s bigger than most adult sharks!
- It bites harder than any other creature.With a bite force of over 40,000 pounds, Megalodon’s jaws crush bones like pretzels—10x stronger than a great white’s bite.
- It eats whales for breakfast. Megs snack on large whales, sea turtles, and other sharks. If it moves, it’s fair game.
- It can jump higher than you think. Despite its massive size, a Meg can launch over 10 feet out of the water when breaching. Imagine a double-decker bus flying straight up. Yeah—nightmare fuel.
- It controls its own body heat. Scientists found that Megs are warm-blooded, allowing it to travel across oceans and dominate any environment.
- Its mouth is a monster cave. Its jaw opens more than 6 feet tall, easily big enough to swallow two people standing up. (Don’t worry—humans aren’t its favorite food.)
- Ancient killer whales may have been one of the few predators of the Megalodon. Early ancestors of modern orcas, like Livyatan melvillei – a massive, toothed whale with giant, sharp teeth—may have competed with or even hunted young or vulnerable Megalodons. This “prehistoric arms race” could have helped push Megalodon toward extinction by outcompeting it for food or directly attacking it. Basically: ancient orcas were not to be messed with either!
If you got this far, APRIL FOOLS! While only 5–10% of the ocean has been explored, and the Megalodon has never truly left the public imagination, you may be scratching your head wondering if we are off our rockers! Yes, the meg is the ultimate sea monster, but it is alive in our curiosity… ONLY! The rest of the information in this species in focus is absolutely TRUE though!
After Bites Megalodon Quiz
Take the megalodon trivia quiz and test your new found knowledge.
Written by Kendall Traiser, PADI Dive Master and Marine Science Major at Florida Gulf Coast University, Shark Angels Intern