Megalodon: Largest Shark that Ever Lived
February 13–May 9, 2010
At 60 feet long, Carcharodon megalodon was the largest shark that ever lived and a dominant marine predator. Sharks are at risk today, with recent population declines attributed to humans. While the Megalodon vanished 2 million years ago, its fascinating story inspires lessons for contemporary science and shark conservation.
This unique exhibit showcases both fossil and modern shark specimens, as well as full-scale models from several collections. Visitors enter a full-sized sculpture of Megalodon through massive jaws and discover this shark’s history and the world it inhabited, including its physiology, diet, lifespan, relatives, neighbors, evolution and extinction.
The exhibit also provides details on how to improve the health of our oceans and survival of threatened species. Recent worldwide declines are attributed to commercial and sport overfishing. Scientists estimate that humans kill 100 million sharks, skates and rays each year, and the life history of most shark species makes it difficult for populations to rebound.
For those wondering why sharks should be saved, the exhibit asks visitors to consider the marine food-web domino effect caused by overfishing. Another section describes how this animal continues to fascinate many, elevating the Megalodon to near cult status. From biker jackets to postage stamps, the exhibition explains the many ways that the Megalodon remains a part of human culture through art, literature, music and film.
Hours
Megalodon is open from 10 am–5 pm Monday–Saturday and noon–5pm Sunday, with the last entry at 4 pm every day.
Tickets
$7 Adults; $5 Seniors/Students; $4 Children (5–11); free to Members.
Exhibit tickets may also be purchased by calling 919.733.7450 x212 or in person at the Museum Box Office between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, Monday–Saturday and noon–4 pm Sunday.
Megalodon Lecture Series
Why Sharks Matter: The Ecological and Economic Importance of Sharks, Threats They Face, and How You Can Help
Tuesday, March 9; 7 pm
Lecture, slide show and video presentation by marine biologist, David Shiffman. Seating is limited.
LECTURE CANCELED
Shark Illustration Contest for kids
Nature Notebook: Megatooth Shark (Megalodon)
Megalodon Exhibition Official Site
Megalodon: The Largest Shark that Ever Lived is sponsored by:
PotashCorp
with additional support from:
94.7 QDR
UNC-TV
CW22
Megalodon was produced by the Florida Museum of Natural History with support from the National Science Foundation.
Past Exhibits
Resources for Past Special Exhibits
