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Maryland Poised to Name Megalodon State Fossil

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. yland-poised-to-name-megalodon-state-fossil.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 14:49 GMT by Popular Science
      Locales: Maryland, UNITED STATES

Annapolis, MD - February 22nd, 2026 - Maryland is on the cusp of making history, potentially becoming the first U.S. state to officially recognize the mighty Otodus megalodon - the prehistoric giant shark - as its state fossil. A bill currently under consideration in the state legislature, born from the dedication of a fifth-grade student, seeks to replace the current, less-iconic Miocene scallop with the apex predator that once ruled the Atlantic Ocean.

The driving force behind this surprising legislative push is Isaiah Evans, a fifth-grader from Calvert County. Evans, as part of a school project, dove deep into the world of paleontology, focusing his research on the megalodon. His findings highlighted not only the sheer scale and power of the creature - estimated to have grown up to 60 feet long - but also its surprising prevalence in Maryland's fossil record. Calvert County, in particular, is renowned for its abundance of megalodon teeth, making it a hotspot for fossil hunters and researchers.

"Isaiah's project was truly exceptional," explains Mrs. Davison, Evans' fifth-grade teacher at Calvert Elementary. "He didn't just present facts; he demonstrated a genuine passion for the subject. He meticulously documented the evidence for megalodon's presence in Maryland waters, even creating a detailed map showcasing the locations where teeth have been discovered. It quickly became clear this wasn't just a school assignment; it was a call to action." That 'call to action' manifested as a letter to state legislators, outlining the reasons why the megalodon deserved recognition.

The Miocene scallop, currently holding the title of Maryland's state fossil since 1994, is undoubtedly important to the region's geological past. However, proponents of the change argue that the megalodon holds a greater potential for inspiring public interest in science and paleontology. The sheer drama and mystique surrounding a giant, extinct shark, they say, far outweighs the appeal of a relatively unassuming shellfish.

"While the Miocene scallop is a scientifically valid fossil, it doesn't capture the imagination like the megalodon," states Dr. Eleanor Vance, a paleontologist at the Calvert Marine Museum. "The megalodon is a global icon, instantly recognizable and evocative of a time when truly massive creatures dominated the oceans. Its fossil teeth, readily found along our coastline, provide a tangible connection to that ancient world."

This potential boost to tourism in Calvert County is also a significant factor. The region already attracts fossil enthusiasts, but designating the megalodon as the state fossil is expected to draw even larger crowds, bolstering local businesses and promoting educational opportunities. The Calvert Marine Museum, already a key attraction, is planning new exhibits centered around the megalodon, incorporating Evans' research and findings. Discussions are underway to establish a dedicated 'Megalodon Trail' along the coastline, highlighting prominent fossil discovery sites.

However, the bill hasn't been without its detractors. Some argue that prioritizing a single, spectacular fossil overlooks the importance of the entire fossil record and the diverse array of organisms that contributed to Maryland's geological history. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for increased unregulated fossil collecting, potentially damaging sensitive geological sites.

To address these concerns, amendments to the bill are being considered that would include provisions for responsible fossil collecting and increased funding for paleontological research and preservation. The Calvert Marine Museum has pledged to work with the state to develop guidelines for sustainable fossil hunting practices and ensure the protection of Maryland's paleontological heritage.

The bill is currently gaining bipartisan support in the legislature and is expected to come to a vote within the next few weeks. If passed, Isaiah Evans will not only have completed a remarkable school project but will have played a pivotal role in shaping Maryland's identity and fostering a deeper appreciation for its natural history. The move is already sparking interest in other states with significant megalodon fossil records, potentially initiating a wave of similar legislation nationwide. The reign of the Miocene scallop may soon be over, giving way to the age of the megalodon in the Old Line State.