Ancient shark discovered deep inside world’s longest cave system
The researchers discovered the remains of an ancient shark at the bottom of the world’s longest system in the world.
The newly discovered shark, torn off from the walls of Mammoth cave In Kentucky, lived about 340 million years ago and was equipped with a row of curved teeth he used to crush his prey.
Macadens Olsoni was a small shark, less than 1 foot (30 centimeters) long, and probably nourished with molluscs and verse, according to a statement Released by the National Park Service (NPS).
“This discovery is a remarkable addition to our understanding of ancient marine life and underlines the importance of preserving and studying our natural history”, ” Barclay TrimbleMammoth Cave’s Superintendent, said in the statement.
In relation: The “ nail ” shark of $ 340 million found deep in Mammoth Mammoth Cave in Kentucky
The rocks of the Mammoth cave were formed at around 320 to 360 million years and were once under a shallow salt water, called the Mississippien Sea. The system of caves itself is much younger and only formed about 10 to 15 million years ago, when rivers and streams on the surface flowed into the rock and has cut the passages of the cave found today, according to Nps.
The exact length of the mammoth cave is unknown, but the explorers have mapped more than 426 miles (686 kilometers) and still discover new passages. He hosts a treasure of old fish fossils – more than 70 different efficient species have been identified within its walls so far.
The last discovery was taken from the STE. Geneviève Rock Formation and dates back to the carboniferous period (358.9 million at 298.9 million years). The name of the genre, “Macadens“Honor Mammoth Cave, while the name of the species”, “Olsoni“Honours Rickard Olson, a park’s retired scientist who played a key role in the documentation of these fossils, according to the press release.
THE Mr. Olsoni Discovery helps researchers better understand the old ecosystems now kept in the mammoth cave, which could be similar to the reefs.
“This observation not only improves our knowledge of ancient marine ecosystems, but also underlines the critical role of paleontological research in our national parks,” said Trimble. “Each discovery connects the past to the present and offers invaluable educational opportunities for students and the public.”
