Figure 1. Life restoration of the extinct megatooth shark, megalodon. Art by Tim Scheirer.
Figure 1. Life restoration of the extinct megatooth shark, megalodon. Art by Tim Scheirer.

SOLOMONS, Md. — The Calvert Marine Museum is advocating for the designation of the extinct megatooth shark Otodus megalodon as Maryland’s official State Shark.

No state has ever designated an official state shark. With numerous living and extinct shark species known from Maryland, we believe the state is well positioned to lead the way.

Maryland waters are home to many shark species that live in the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic Coast. In addition, more than 60 species of extinct sharks are known from fossilized teeth found throughout the state. Of all possible candidates, megalodon stands out as the most iconic choice (Figure 1).

Figure 2. A large tooth from Maryland from the megatooth shark, Otodus megalodon Photo by S. Godfrey
Figure 2. A large tooth from Maryland from the megatooth shark, Otodus megalodon Photo by S. Godfrey

“Megalodon highlights Maryland’s rich fossil history,” said Stephen Godfrey, curator of paleontology at the Calvert Marine Museum. “It also reminds us of the important role prehistoric and modern sharks have played in shaping past and present ecosystems.”

Megalodon would be a source of statewide pride and an exceptional educational tool. For these reasons, we are excited about the prospect of designating megalodon as Maryland’s official State Shark.

Figure 3. Calvert Marine Museum Paleontology Collections Manager, John Nance with the only associated set of megalodon teeth ever found in Maryland. (An associated set of teeth are those from one shark that died, preserving most of its teeth in one place, as opposed to those teeth that were shed naturally throughout its life, the usual teeth that are found.) Photo by S. Godfrey
Figure 3. Calvert Marine Museum Paleontology Collections Manager, John Nance with the only associated set of megalodon teeth ever found in Maryland. (An associated set of teeth are those from one shark that died, preserving most of its teeth in one place, as opposed to those teeth that were shed naturally throughout its life, the usual teeth that are found.) Photo by S. Godfrey

The Calvert Marine Museum expresses appreciation to Marianne Harms, Sen. Jack Bailey, Del. Todd Morgan and their respective staff for their assistance in the effort to designate megalodon as Maryland’s State Shark

Explore how the prehistoric past, natural environments, and maritime heritage come to life and tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. The Calvert Marine Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Admission is $11 for adults, $9 for seniors, military, and veterans with valid I.D, AAA and AARP members, $6 for children ages 5 – 12, children under 5 and museum members are admitted free. Proud participant in Museums for ALL. For more information about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call 410-326-2042. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

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