What was the calculated height of the largest Livyatan teeth recovered from the left lower jaw of the holotype specimen?
Answer
36.2 centimeters (1.2 feet)
The sheer scale of Livyatan’s teeth is a standout feature confirmed by physical fossil recovery. Specifically, the largest teeth retrieved from the holotype fossil specimen were those found on the left lower jaw. Measurements determined these particular teeth stood approximately 36.2 centimeters high, which converts to 1.2 feet. To illustrate the magnitude of this dental armament, this dimension is described as being significantly larger than the teeth recovered from Tyrannosaurus rex, underscoring its role as a specialized apex predator.

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