New Species of Ancient Shark Discovered in Kentucky
In July, researchers discovered a new species of shark in Kentucky in the Mammoth Cave, where many other species of sharks have also been discovered. The species, called the Macadens Olsoni, previously unknown, dates back to about 340 million years ago, and is one of many ancient species of sharks to be discovered at Mammoth Cave, one of the world’s longest cave systems.
The species of Macadens Olsoni is special for its curved structure of teeth that is useful to catch small creatures like mollusks and worms. Researchers think that the shark was very small, around a foot long, and used to live in Mammoth Cave when it was submerged. When Mammoth Cave was underwater, many diverse ancient creatures lived in the area, with many different species found in the cave later on.
Researchers discovered the fossil in the walls of the St. Genevieve rock formation, as shark skeletons are made of cartilage. Cartilage does not solidify as well as bone, as it is softer and not as hard. This makes it very difficult for the fossils to be properly preserved and found later on. “This discovery is a remarkable addition to our understanding of ancient marine life and underscores the importance of preserving and studying our natural history,” said Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Barclay Trimble.
As people continue to discover more at Mammoth Cave, each new find contributes to piecing together each part of the past. “This finding not only enhances our knowledge of ancient marine ecosystems but also emphasizes the critical role of paleontological research in our national parks,” Trimble added. “Every discovery connects the past with the present and offers invaluable educational opportunities for students and the public.”
Macadens Olsoni is one of the most recent shark species that has been discovered at Mammoth Cave. Other species, like Strigilodus Tollesonae, with spoon-shaped teeth, Glikmanius Occidentalis, and Troglocladodus Trimblei. Trimble says, “Every new discovery at Mammoth Cave is possible due to collaborations,” as researchers
Mammoth Cave has been a major place where many people have found fossils of many animals that lived a long time ago, that give more to the scientific world. As scientists continue to find more new species, are found and contribute to the piecing of the past.
