Megalodons are one of the most vicious creatures known to have existed on this planet. Megalodon teeth in Florida are also a trendy choice for people who want to buy one because they look great, have historical value, and have a lot of character. If you're wondering what precisely a megalodon is, then we'll explain it below!
Existence
The Megalodon (Otodus megalodon) is an extinct species of shark that lived approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago, from the Early Miocene to the Pliocene.
As a shark, it was larger than today's Great Whites and earned its name by being the largest predatory fish. It had Megalodon teeth in Florida up to 17.8 cm (6.9 inches) long and an enormous jaw that could easily crush anything smaller than itself! The Meg was one of the largest and most powerful predators in vertebrate history and likely profoundly impacted the structure of marine communities.
The Megalodon was the most giant and predatory sharks ever to have lived on Earth—and it probably impacted marine communities like no other creature before or since.
Origins
The Swiss-American biologist Louis Agassiz made the first recorded discovery in 1835. He described them as "mammoth teeth" and named them Carcharodon megalodon (giant tooth).
Megalodon means giant tooth in Greek, but its origins are unknown. This name may come from Greek μÎγας δόντιος (Megas dens), meaning "great jaw," or perhaps another form of μεγαλόνδονος (megántonos), meaning "large." Since then, there have been many different theories about what it could mean, including a giant shark, a big whale; an enormous whale; or even an overgrown dinosaur!
Some teeth have been discovered with a loop at the base, which paleontologists theorized could have been used as a "lever arm." As in modern sharks, Megalodon's teeth were set in sockets within the jawbones rather than fused to them, as is common among bony fishes. These large teeth may have been used for territorial encounters or to grasp prey by their outer edges (much like human hands).
The most common fossilized remains of Megalodon are found in SE United States - but you can also find them in Florida!
Size
Estimating the size of Megalodons is usually based on their fossil teeth and vertebrae. Among both modern and extinct species, teeth are the most common fossil remains; vertebrae are rarer but provide essential information on size and posture.
Megalodon teeth in Florida are easy to find in the field because they're so large (1-2 inches or more long). Megalodon vertebrae are harder to find because they are made of cartilage, not bone and they are quite rare.
Why do people buy Megalodon Teeth?
The reason that some people buy Megalodon teeth in Florida is that they are a symbol of power. They represent wealth, status, and strength.
People may also buy one to show pride in themselves or their family by wearing it as a necklace. It's often seen as an adventure to go out on adventures with friends and family, so it can be used for this purpose too!
How to buy an authentic tooth?
- Buy from a reputable dealer.
- Look for signs of age and wear.
- Look for signs of alteration.
- Look for signs of damage, especially if it's been repaired before you bought your Megalodon teeth.
Closing thoughts
If you're interested in getting Megalodon teeth in Florida, it's essential to know that they are scarce. Some people buy them as a symbol of wealth or status; others believe they will make more money on the market if they have an investment in fossil teeth. But many collectors feel there is no better way to show off their collections than with these exotic treasures from deep sea history.
