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How big were ancient sharks like the one found near Darwin?
The fossil vertebrae suggest that this ancient shark was about 8 meters long, making it one of the largest predators of its time. This size indicates that large predatory sharks existed much earlier in Earth's history than previously thought, highlighting their role in ancient marine food chains.
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What does this find reveal about marine evolution in the Cretaceous?
The discovery shows that large, predatory sharks were already evolving 115 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period. It suggests that the lineage leading to modern sharks was well-established and that marine ecosystems supported giant predators much earlier than scientists had believed.
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Could similar fossils be hiding in other parts of the world?
Yes, it's quite possible. Many regions with rich marine fossil records, like Australia, North America, and parts of Africa, could harbor similar vertebrae or other remains of ancient sharks. Ongoing excavations and advances in fossil analysis may uncover more such discoveries worldwide.
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Why are vertebrae important for understanding shark evolution?
Vertebrae are crucial because they help scientists estimate the size and shape of ancient sharks. Since soft tissues rarely fossilize, vertebrae provide vital clues about the anatomy, size, and evolutionary history of these prehistoric predators.
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How does this discovery change our view of prehistoric oceans?
This find indicates that large predatory sharks were a significant part of marine ecosystems much earlier than previously believed. It suggests that prehistoric oceans were more complex and predator-rich, shaping the evolution of marine life in ways we are only beginning to understand.