The giant bite of a new raptorial sperm whale from the Miocene epoch of Peru

摘要: The modern giant sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus, one of the largest known predators, preys upon cephalopods at great depths. Lacking a functional upper dentition, it relies on suction for catching its prey; in contrast, several smaller Miocene whales (Physeteroidea) have been interpreted as raptorial (versus suction) feeders, analogous to killer Orcinus orca. Whereas very large physeteroid teeth discovered various localities, associated diagnostic cranial remains not found so far. Here we report discovery new from Middle Peru (approximately 12-13 million years ago), Leviathan melvillei, described basis skull with and mandible. With 3-m-long head, lower (maximum diameter length 12 cm greater than 36 cm, respectively), robust jaws temporal fossa considerably larger Physeter, this stem represents predators and, our knowledge, biggest tetrapod bite ever found. appearance gigantic fossil record coincides phase diversification size-range increase baleen-bearing mysticetes Miocene. We propose that fed mostly high-energy content medium-size baleen whales. As top predator, together contemporaneous shark Carcharocles megalodon, probably had profound impact structuring marine communities. development vast supracranial basin Leviathan, extending rostrum might indicate presence an enlarged spermaceti organ former is deep diving or obligatory feeding.