Maryland lawmakers voted to designate the megalodon as Maryland’s official shark.
The megalodon is now extinct, however the massive shark used to live in Maryland for at least 15 million years. They can grow up to 80 feet long and their teeth could be the size of a human’s head, their teeth can also be found in the Chesapeake Bay, near the Calvert Cliffs.
Even though the shark became extinct years ago, the megalodon still holds relevance over the ecological importance of sharks in ocean systems. The megalodons designation highlights the history of Maryland’s marine life and provides opportunities for public education. With this new designation, Maryland can proudly claim to be the first state to have a designated state shark!