Discovering the Sabre-Toothed Salmon
A recent study published in the journal PLOS One revealed fascinating details about a massive prehistoric salmon that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. This ancient fish, known as Oncorhynchus rastrosus, boasted unique tusk-like teeth that protruded sideways from its face, resembling the tusks of a warthog.
The Enormous Size of Oncorhynchus rastrosus
Scientists estimate that Oncorhynchus rastrosus was the largest salmon species ever known, reaching staggering lengths of up to 8.8 feet (2.68 meters). In comparison, the modern Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, typically grows to around three feet (0.9 meters) in length.
The Era of the Sabre-Toothed Salmon
Oncorhynchus rastrosus thrived during the Micene epoch, a period characterized by global warmth approximately five million years ago. This prehistoric giant navigated the seas and streams with its remarkable features.
The Mystery of Its Teeth
The unique teeth of Oncorhynchus rastrosus have long puzzled researchers. Initially thought to curve downward like sabre-toothed cats, recent CT scans of fossils revealed that these teeth were more akin to spikes or warthog tusks, each measuring around two inches in length.
Possible Uses of the Tusks
While the exact purpose of these tusk-like teeth remains a mystery, scientists speculate that they might have been used for combat against other salmon or predators. Some theories suggest that female salmon could have utilized them to dig nests for their eggs, or even to aid in swimming upstream for reproduction.
In a conversation with PopSci, Edward Davis, a co-author of the study and a paleobiologist at the University of Oregon, proposed that these teeth could have served as hooks to rest while swimming upstream, conserving energy similar to holding onto the side of a swimming pool.
The Extinction of Oncorhynchus rastrosus
As the Earth cooled during the late Miocene period, Oncorhynchus rastrosus eventually went extinct. Climate change likely played a role in their demise, as diminishing resources made it challenging for these large creatures to sustain their bodies.
Explore the intriguing world of prehistoric creatures and uncover the mysteries of the ancient oceans with this remarkable discovery.