what information were the scientists able to learn from the skeleton itself?
Since then, scientists have found hundreds of fossilized Megalodon teeth and spinal segments known as centra. Because a sharkâs skeleton is made up of cartilage, which dissolves quickly in ocean water, these are the only Megalodon remains that have survived over millions of years. Scientists are able to learn a lot about Megalodon from these fragments. For example, experts can determine a Megalodonâs age at death by examining the centra. Each centra contains growth rings, sort of like a tree. By counting the rings, their color, and how far apart they are, scientists are even able to determine a Megalodonâs growth rate.