Livyatan was a colossal predatory whale that lived during the Miocene epoch, around 12 to 8 million years ago. Measuring up to 13 to 17 meters (43 to 56 feet) in length, it was one of the largest known whales and a formidable predator. Livyatan, also known as Livyatan melvillei, had large conical teeth that could reach up to 36 centimeters (14 inches) in length, which it likely used to hunt large prey such as other marine mammals and large fish. Fossils of Livyatan have been found in South America, providing significant insights into the evolution of apex marine predators and the diversity of ancient whales.