Name: Megalodon

Pronounced: MEG-a-la-don

Description:
Measuring up to 50 feet long and tipping the scales at up to 50 tons, the Megalodon, a shark, was probably two to three times larger than today's great white shark. Its name means "long tooth," and its teeth were not only long but huge all around, with serrated edges.

Fighting Style:
The Megalodon had an extremely sharp sense of smell and good eyesight; it was also very agile, which made it a lethal predator. After stalking and catching up to its victim, the Megalodon would use its rows of massive teeth to rip into its flesh. The shark would then retreat and allow its prey to lose blood, returning to attack again when the victim had become weaker.

Home Turf: Ocean waters around the world.

When It Lived: Miocene and Pliocene Eras (roughly 25-5 million years ago)

What's For Dinner?:
The Megalodon was an apex predator, at the top of the food chain in its waters. Its prey probably ranged from victims as small as seals (100 pounds each) to much bigger animals, including giant squid, other large sharks and, especially, whales.