In Gateway, Oregon, back in 1964, a remarkable discovery was made by paleontologists: the skull of a giant, ancient ancestor of the sockeye salmon. This prehistoric fish, estimated to have grown up to nine feet long, belonged to the family of salmonids, which include various species of salmon, trout, and taimen. Unearthed at a quarry near Gateway, the salmon’s massive teeth gave it the nickname “saber-toothed salmon,” drawing comparisons to the saber-toothed tigers.
Decades later, in 1990, artist Ray Troll stumbled upon the intriguing story of the saber-toothed salmon. Inspired by the discovery, Troll began drawing the ancient fish, eventually creating an acclaimed mural at the University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History. Recent excavations have revealed even more about the unique characteristics of this prehistoric fish, shedding light on its appearance and behavior.
The new findings, published in a paper in PLOS One, describe the saber-toothed salmon in a new light. With the discovery of two well-preserved salmon skulls, researchers were able to update their understanding of the fish’s features. Contrary to popular belief, the salmon’s teeth did not curve downward like sabers but instead protruded outward like those of a warthog or muntjac deer.
Further examination through CT scans provided insight into the internal anatomy of the salmon, confirming the positioning of its distinct teeth. The fossils, found fossilized together, indicated that the male and female salmon were likely a mating pair, possibly engaged in spawning at the time of fossilization. The fossils also revealed that the salmon’s tusks were not used for feeding but rather for defense and nest-building during the breeding season.
The research surrounding the saber-toothed salmon continues to evolve, prompting adjustments in depictions of the ancient fish in various settings, such as sculptures and murals. Despite these updates, some representations, like Troll’s mural, remain unchanged to reflect the evolving nature of scientific discovery. The saber-toothed salmon serves as a fascinating relic of the past, offering insights into the ancient world of these incredible creatures.