According to U. of Fla. study, white sharks descended from a recently identified extinct shark species.

According to Phys.org, a University of Florida study has identified a recently identified extinct shark species (Carcharodon hubbelli) as being an early “intermediate form” of white shark. Researchers involved in the study believe that the modern great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is descended from “broad-toothed mako sharks.”

Previously, the white shark was believed to be descended from the “Megalodon,” which is believed to be the largest predatory shark to have ever lived. However, the genus of the extinct species has been previously debated. The species, which was originally classified as Carcharodon megalodon, is now referred to by some scientists as Carcharocles megalodon. The recent University of Florida study seems to support the Carcharocles argument.

For more information about the study and Carcharodon hubbelli, check out “New ancient shark species gives insight into origin of great white” at Phys.org.