The megalodon was the largest shark to ever live, growing up to 60 feet long—about the size of a school bus. It lived millions of years ago and had teeth as big as a human hand, which it used to hunt whales and other large marine animals. Although it's extinct, scientists study its fossilized teeth to learn more about this ancient ocean predator.

About the Megalodon

Myth: Sharks are not important to the ecosystem.

Truth:

Sharks are vital apex predators that help keep marine ecosystems balanced and healthy. Without them, populations of prey species can become unbalanced, harming coral reefs and fish stocks.

Megalodons still live in the deep ocean.

FUN FACT

Megalodons are extinct. Scientists have looked everywhere and know they’re gone. But they were real a long time ago!

Extension Activities

  • What You Need: Sandbox or container with sand, fake shark teeth or small white stones, brushes.


    Activity: Bury "teeth" in the sand. Kids play paleontologist and dig them up!

  • How can we help protect sharks and their habitats in our everyday lives?

  • Which shark is your favorite? Draw it!

Share with us!

Share with us!

We’d love to hear what you thought about this lesson! If you tried one of the extension activities or created a shark drawing, feel free to share it with us in our Facebook group. Thanks for joining us for this bite-sized shark adventure—we hope you had fun! 🦈