A New Shocking Ancient Shark Discovery in Kentucky
By: Allison C
The Paleontological Resources Inventory has just recently found a new shark species in late July 2025, lurking around the Mammoth Cave in Kentucky.
The first evidence of this new animal, a tooth, was found in 2019 by superintendent Barclay Trimble. Since then, the PRI has been partnering with institutions like the University of Alabama to conduct further research and expand their knowledge on ancient sharks.
What Is the Shark Like?
The shark is a Troglocladodus trimblei. It is estimated to have the ability to grow 10-12 feet long. The sharks’ distinctive feature is their forked teeth. As an active predator, the teeth function as grappling hooks used for holding on to slippery prey.
Sharks often rip their prey apart into manageable pieces before swallowing. The T. trimblei has sharp teeth used for slicing. The shark, although being at least 10 feet long, is a swift predator catching agile prey like fish.
It inhabits coastal locations, unlike regular sharks, which prefer deep ocean water. Based on their size and teeth, researchers have predicted that they feed on shellfish, as their teeth are capable of crushing the hard shells.
Importance of the Discovery
This new shark species has helped researchers discover and educate themselves on a new shark. This illustrates the evolutionary changes and differences between ancient and modern sharks. This provides clues about the connection of ancient marine life across these regions because the location in which these fossils were found was in an area that was once a seaway connecting North America, Europe, and Africa.
Also, the discovery shows the importance of paleontology research in national parks, as now the cave is undisturbed. This provides a safe haven for new discoveries that have yet to come.
Works Cited
“A Look at Types of Shark Teeth and Their Unique Features.” A-Z Animals, https://a-z-animals.com/blog/a-look-at-types-of-shark-teeth-and-their-unique-features/.
Fox 56 News. “Two New Species of Shark Discovered in Mammoth Cave National Park.” Fox 56 News, 15 Mar. 2024, https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/two-new-species-of-shark-discovered-in-mammoth-cave-national-park/.
“Paleontological Discoveries at Mammoth Cave.” National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, 10 Apr. 2024, https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossils/paleontological-discoveries-at-mammoth-cave.htm.
“Species of Shark Discovered in Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave.” WLWT 5, 15 Mar. 2024, https://www.wlwt.com/article/species-shark-discovered-kentucky-mammoth-cave-macadens/65527655.
“The Unveiling of Mammoth Cave’s History.” National Parks Conservation Association, https://www.npca.org/articles/7703-the-unveiling-of-mammoth-cave-s-history.