Scientists from DePaul University in the USA calculated that the megalodon could swim at a speed of no more than 1.9 km / h. In this respect informs Daily mail portal.
Megalodons are extinct giant sharks that reached a length of 15 meters. Their weight can exceed 35 tons, making them one of the largest aquatic predators in world history. Megalodon lived in the oceans about 15 to 3.6 million years ago. What the megalodon looked like remains a mystery, as its skeleton completely disappeared over time – scientists can only assess its teeth. However, it is assumed that they resemble a larger version of the modern great white shark.
The study’s authors used analysis of the plaqueoid scales of ancient fish preserved in the rock formations of Japan in their study. Apparently, the fish did not have narrow backs that allowed it to develop high speed underwater.
Previously, it was believed that the megalodon could reach a speed of 5.6 km/h, but current results show that its true speed does not exceed 1.9 km/h. According to experts, this speed is extremely low – for comparison: Olympic champion Michael Phelps can swim at 9.6 km / h.
Formerly isotopic analysis showedthat the ancient megalodon was a warm-blooded fish.