Close up image of an ammonite fossil shell.

Extinctions

A rendering of an underwater marine scene from the Cambrian Period, featuring an arthropod, annelids, and other animals.

A Collection of Cambrian Fossils

The ocean during the Cambrian Period was filled with strange and alien creatures. Learn how scientists turn to fossils to recreate ancient seas.

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Featured Content

Scientists Call New Eel Species A Living Fossil

A photo of a swimming Protanguilla palau, the newly discovered genus and species of eel

Unearthing History: Mary Anning's Hunt for Prehistoric Ocean Giants

Although in reality an ichthyosaur and plesiosaur would have likely never battled, this widely shared lithograph by artist, geologist and paleontologist Henry De la Beche even inspired author Jules Verne to pen a similar scene in his book, Journey to the C

Smithsonian Scientists Describe a 'New' Fossil Whale

An illustration of a recently discovered species of Monodontid, Bohaskaia monodontoides, and its beluga and narwhale relatives

Are You An Educator?

At Smithsonian Ocean, we have lesson plans, activities, and resources to help you engage your students in the wonders of our oceans.
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Extinctions Articles

Unearthing History: Mary Anning's Hunt for Prehistoric Ocean Giants

Although in reality an ichthyosaur and plesiosaur would have likely never battled, this widely shared lithograph by artist, geologist and paleontologist Henry De la Beche even inspired author Jules Verne to pen a similar scene in his book, Journey to the C

New Archaeocetes from Peru Are the Oldest Fossil Whales from South America

Offshore Peru, during the Eocene (~56-34 million years ago), showing two archaeocetes (ancient whales): Ocucajea picklingi and Supayacetus muizon.

Archaeologists Study Early Whaling Community in Quebec, Canada

Two men each hold a ceramic vessel at the archaeological excavation

Fossil Whale Found, Excavated, Jacketed, and Returned to STRI!

Smithsonian scientists race the tide the excavate an ancient whale fossil entombed in rock

Dispatches from the Field: Treacherous stream crossings and a new fossil find

A researcher holds an arm bone from a "toothed" mysticete whale from Vancouver Island.