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60-foot octopus prowled seas as apex predator during age of dinosaurs, fossilized jaws show
Updated on: April 24, 2026 / 7:39 AM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- Fossilized jaws suggest giant octopuses, up to 60 feet long, were apex predators 100 million years ago.
- These ancient octopuses rivaled marine reptiles in size and predatory status.
- Their powerful beaks were capable of crushing shells and bones.
- The largest ancient octopus jaws found were significantly larger than those of modern octopuses.
- Wear patterns on the jaws indicate repeated crushing of hard prey.
- The study highlights the potential for soft-bodied invertebrates to become formidable predators.