LIMA, Peru

In an extraordinary revelation that excites both paleontology enthusiasts and marine biology aficionados, scientists in Peru have unveiled a remarkable fossil that dates back a staggering 9 million years. This well-preserved specimen is a distant relative of the great white shark and once prowled the waters of the southern Pacific Ocean, feasting primarily on sardines.

The nearly-complete fossil of Cosmopolitodus hastalis was unearthed approximately 235 kilometers south of Lima, in the renowned Pisco basin, an area celebrated for its rich deposits of ancient marine life. This hot, desert locale has continuously yielded significant findings, making it a hotspot for researchers eager to delve into the ocean's prehistoric past.

The fossil offers a glimpse into a formidable predator, believed to be an ancestor of today’s great white shark. While the species is now extinct, its impressive teeth could reach lengths of nearly 8.9 centimeters, and adults were estimated to grow up to seven meters long—comparable to the size of a small boat. "The fossilization was exceptionally well-preserved," noted Mr. César Augusto Chacaltana from the Peruvian Geological and Mining Institute (INGEMMET), during a recent presentation.

At the event, paleontologist Mario Urbina highlighted that such complete shark fossils are quite rare globally. Accompanying the fossil were numerous glass urns that housed other aspects of the shark, including a giant, sharp-toothed jaw. Fascinatingly, the researchers discovered remnants of numerous sardines within the stomach content, underscoring the fact that these fish were likely a staple in the diet of marine predators at that time.

It’s worth noting that when Cosmopolitodus hastalis roamed the seas, anchovies had not yet made their debut in the oceanic ecosystem. This piece of information paints a vivid picture of the ancient marine food web, with sardines serving as a key prey species.

This discovery comes on the heels of several other significant paleontological finds in the region. In November 2024, Peruvian scientists announced the fossilized remains of a young crocodile that thrived over 10 million years ago, further showcasing the Pisco basin’s wealth of ancient life. Additionally, in April 2024, researchers displayed the skull of the largest known river dolphin, which inhabited the Amazon around 16 million years ago.

The ongoing research and discoveries from Peru's rich geological past not only enhance our understanding of marine life evolution but also spark intrigue about the planet's ecological transitions. Stay tuned as scientists continue to unearth the mysteries buried beneath the sands of time in this captivating region!