What is the difference between a megalodon and great white shark?

The main differences between megalodon and great white shark lie in their size, body characteristics, diet, and extinction status:

1. Size:

- Megalodon: Megalodon was a giant shark that lived approximately 23 million to 2.6 million years ago. Estimates of its size vary, but it is believed to have reached lengths of up to 18 meters (59 feet).

- Great White Shark: Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are also large predatory sharks but significantly smaller than megalodon. They typically range from 4 to 5.5 meters (13 to 18 feet) in length.

2. Body Characteristics:

- Megalodon: Megalodon had a robust, powerful body with a broad, rounded snout and large, serrated teeth. Its teeth could measure up to 18 centimeters (7 inches) in length.

- Great White Shark: Great white sharks have a more streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a pointed snout. Their teeth are also serrated but smaller compared to megalodon's teeth, reaching lengths of up to 5 centimeters (2 inches).

3. Diet:

- Megalodon: As an apex predator, megalodon likely preyed upon various marine creatures such as whales, dolphins, seals, and other large fish. Given its massive size, it had the capability to take down larger prey compared to modern sharks.

- Great White Shark: Great white sharks are also apex predators, hunting seals, sea lions, fish, and other marine mammals. They employ a powerful "bite-and-retreat" hunting strategy.

4. Extinction Status:

- Megalodon: Megalodon went extinct around 2.6 million years ago. The exact reasons for its extinction are still a subject of research and debate among scientists, involving factors such as environmental changes, competition with other predators, and shifts in prey populations.

- Great White Shark: Great white sharks are extant and can be found in various parts of the world's oceans. They are an IUCN Red List-designated vulnerable species, facing threats such as overfishing, habitat loss, and hunting.

In summary, while both megalodon and great white shark are powerful predators, megalodon was a much larger and more robust shark that lived millions of years ago. Great white sharks, though still formidable predators, exist today and are smaller in size compared to megalodon.