Technology

Mammoth Cave National Park, famed for its vast network of underground passages—stretching over 420 miles—has yielded a remarkable discovery: fossils of two previously unknown species of prehistoric sharks. These finds offer a unique window into a time, over 325 million years ago, when much of eastern North America lay beneath warm, shallow seas. The discovery underscores the cave’s potential to reveal further secrets about ancient marine life.

The newly identified sharks, Troglocladodus trimblei and Glikmanius careforum, belonged to a group known as ctenacanths. Researchers estimate both species reached approximately 10–12 feet in length, comparable to the size of a modern oceanic whitetip shark. The fossils were recovered from limestone formations dating back to the Middle to Late Mississippian Period, a time when the region was a thriving marine environment.

Ancient shark specialist John-Paul (JP) Hodnett of the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) collaborated with the National Park Service Paleontology Program to identify the fossils. “Every new discovery at Mammoth Cave is possible due to collaborations,” said park superintendent Barclay Trimble. The research builds on previous findings, with over 70 ancient fish species now identified within the cave system, painting a picture of a diverse prehistoric ecosystem.

A Rare Glimpse at Cartilaginous Anatomy

A particularly significant discover was a partial jaw from a young Glikmanius careforum. The preservation of cartilage, a material that rarely fossilizes well due to its fragility, provides valuable insights into the shark’s anatomy. Cartilaginous remains are easily eroded, making this discovery especially rewarding for paleontologists. Experts believe the preserved cartilage suggests a short head and a powerful bite, potentially used to prey on smaller fish and orthocones—squid-like creatures with elongated shells.

The new fossils contribute to ongoing discussions about the diversification of shark groups during the formation of the supercontinent Pangea. Researchers are using the finds to compare local fossil collections with specimens from similar periods around the world, documenting body sizes, tooth arrangements, and skeletal details to refine the timeline of shark evolution. This comparative perform helps illuminate shifts in fish diversity as oceans changed and landmasses merged.

Fieldwork and Preservation Efforts

The discovery of T. Trimblei began with a single tooth found by Superintendent Trimble during a 2019 exploration. Retrieving the fossils required careful coordination between seasoned cavers and geologists, navigating hidden passages, river channels, and narrow crawlways to ensure the delicate remains weren’t damaged. The Cave Research Foundation played a key role in the fieldwork, and the name Glikmanius careforum was chosen to honor their support.

Research at Mammoth Cave has prompted discussions about the best ways to preserve these fragile fossils within the challenging cave environment. Stable cave temperatures are proving beneficial for preservation, and park managers are integrating new data into guidelines for future research. This will help ensure that more clues about marine life from 325 million years ago can be uncovered.

Artwork by Benji Paynose: A reconstruction of the new Middle to Late Mississippian ctenacanth sharks from Mammoth Cave National Park and northern Alabama. Glikmanius careforum is seen swimming in the foreground with two Troglocladodus trimblei swimming above.

Tracing Evolutionary Change

Troglocladodus trimblei is distinguished by its branching tooth design, which likely helped it secure prey in the Mississippian seas. Researchers believe this prehistoric hunter shared its coastal environment with G. Careforum in waters that now encompass Kentucky and Alabama. These sharks thrived in nearshore habitats teeming with bony fish, shelled organisms, and other marine creatures.

By tracing these fossils across multiple rock layers, scientists are gaining insights into how the environment changed over time. Rising and falling coastal waters, driven by the movement of landmasses, shaped the distribution and evolutionary paths of these ancient sharks. The findings highlight the interconnectedness of geologic history and the evolution of life.

The study, published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, demonstrates that even well-studied geologic areas like Mammoth Cave can continue to yield surprising discoveries. Future research will likely involve advanced imaging techniques and careful excavation in lesser-known passages, guided by new mapping technologies. These ongoing efforts promise to further illuminate the rich paleontological history hidden within the cave system.

What comes next for Mammoth Cave’s paleontological research is continued exploration and analysis. Researchers are eager to uncover what lies deeper within the cave’s complex network, hoping to piece together an even more complete picture of ancient marine ecosystems. Share your thoughts on this incredible discovery in the comments below!

The creators of the critically acclaimed Little Nightmares, Tarsier Studios, are back with a latest atmospheric horror adventure titled Reanimal. Available now on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch 2, the game plunges players into a chilling world where a sibling duo returns to a desolate island to rescue their captured friends from terrifying creatures. Reanimal is already garnering praise, with one review calling it the “ultimate expression” of Tarsier Studios’ signature style and a potential contender for the best horror game of 2026.

Reanimal centers around a brother and sister navigating a hauntingly lovely, yet dangerous, island overrun by monstrous inhabitants. The game emphasizes atmosphere and tension, inviting players to confront their fears as they unravel the mysteries of this isolated land. The core gameplay revolves around stealth, puzzle-solving, and cooperative play, offering a unique and unsettling experience for horror fans.

But is Reanimal right for you? Here are five reasons to consider diving into this new horror title, encompassing its immersive terror, cooperative gameplay options, and the accessibility offered by the Friend’s Pass.

Immersive Horror and Atmospheric Storytelling

Tarsier Studios has built a reputation for crafting deeply atmospheric and unsettling experiences, and Reanimal appears to continue that tradition. The game’s environments are designed to evoke a sense of dread and isolation, while the sound design plays a crucial role in building tension. Reviewers have highlighted the game’s ability to create a truly immersive and terrifying atmosphere, drawing players into its dark and twisted world. The focus on psychological horror, rather than jump scares, aims to deliver a more sustained and unsettling experience.

Cooperative Gameplay for Shared Scares

Reanimal isn’t a solitary experience; it’s designed to be played with a friend. The game features cooperative gameplay, allowing two players to tackle the challenges of the island together. This adds a new layer of strategy and teamwork, as players must coordinate their movements and abilities to overcome obstacles and evade the lurking creatures. The ability to share the experience with a friend can amplify the sense of fear and create memorable moments.

Accessibility with the Friend’s Pass

Tarsier Studios is making Reanimal more accessible with the inclusion of a Friend’s Pass. This feature allows one player to purchase the full game, while a friend can join the adventure without needing to buy a separate copy. This lowers the barrier to entry for cooperative play, making it easier for players to experience the game with a companion. The Friend’s Pass is intended to encourage shared experiences and broaden the game’s reach.

A Worthy Successor to Little Nightmares

For fans of Little Nightmares, Reanimal offers a familiar yet evolved experience. Several reviews have positioned the game as a worthy successor, building upon the foundations laid by its predecessor while introducing new mechanics and a unique setting. While the game shares thematic similarities with Little Nightmares, it also carves out its own identity with its distinct art style and narrative. According to Siliconera, Reanimal “revives the Little Nightmares style experience.”

Critical Acclaim and Early Buzz

Reanimal has been receiving positive reviews from critics, with many praising its atmosphere, gameplay, and overall presentation. Gamereactor UK described the game as a “challenger” for the best horror game of 2026. This early buzz suggests that Reanimal is a title that horror fans should definitely keep on their radar. GameSpace.com called it “one of the best” horror games released so far this year.

Reanimal is now available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2. Whether you’re a seasoned horror veteran or new to the genre, Reanimal promises a chilling and unforgettable adventure.

The success of Reanimal could signal a continued interest in atmospheric, story-driven horror games. It will be interesting to see how Tarsier Studios builds upon this foundation in future projects and whether the game’s cooperative features become a more common element in the horror genre.

What are your thoughts on Reanimal? Share your opinions in the comments below!