MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky. — Researchers at Mammoth Cave have discovered a new shark species dating back more than 300 million years ago.

What You Need To Know

  • Mammoth Cave National Park researchers have discovered a new shark species 

  • The species, Clavusodens mcginnisi, was about 3 to 4 inches in size and dates back more than 300 million years ago

  • The shark was named after retired NPS superintendent and naturalist David McGinnis

  • More than 70 shark species have been identified at the Ste. Genevieve Formation in Mammoth Cave

Cave Specialist Rick Toomey helped discover the fossil. The new shark species, Clavusodens mcginnisi, is nicknamed “chipmunk shark” for its small size, chisel-like front teeth and crushing back teeth, according to the National Park Service, while also honoring retired NPS superintendent and naturalist David McGinnis. 

“They are small; they have these teeth out in front for nipping off things,” Toomey said. “It makes them look a little bit like a chipmunk.”

The shark was about 3 to 4 inches in size. Toomey said the shark would use its teeth to devour smaller sources of food on the ocean floor, such as small snails and brachiopods. 

The NPS added more than 70 shark species have been identified at the Ste. Genevieve Formation at Mammoth Cave to date, including four new species. 

“About 340 million years ago, this passage that we’re standing in did not exist,” Toomey said. “We would have been standing on the bottom of the ocean floor.”

McGinnis’ 39-year career started at Mammoth Cave National Park.

Visit the NPS website for more on Mammoth Cave.

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