The story of Carcharodontosaurus fossils is one of discovery, loss and rediscovery. The first fossils, including two teeth and part of a jaw, were discovered in the early 20th century in North Africa.
However, much of the original material, including the Carcharodontosaurus skull, was tragically lost during World War II when a German bombing raid destroyed the fossils stored in Munich.
Thankfully, in the 1990s, paleontologists discovered new theropod remains — including a nearly complete skull — allowing scientists to reconstruct this incredible predator. These discoveries shed new light on the genus, revealing its shark-like teeth and unique skeletal structure.
Today, these fossils, some of which are still being discovered, remain crucial to the study of vertebrate paleontology, offering insights into the anatomy and hunting strategies of one of history’s most formidable predatory animals [source: Science Daily].
