Livyatan melvillei was a prehistoric sperm whale, known for its massive size, reaching up to 17 meters in length. It possessed enormous teeth, the largest of any known animal, and a powerful bite. This apex predator thrived in the oceans of the Miocene epoch, preying on other large marine animals.

Livyatan melvillei, an extinct species of sperm whale, is believed to have inhabited the oceans during the Miocene epoch, approximately 12 to 13 million years ago. Fossils have been primarily discovered in the Pisco Basin of Peru, indicating that its native region likely included the Pacific Ocean along the western coast of South America. Additional potential discovery sites suggest a broader distribution across ancient marine environments, possibly extending to other parts of the Southern Hemisphere, though confirmed fossils are primarily from Peru.

Livyatan melvillei would have lived in warm, nutrient-rich marine environments typical of the Miocene epoch. This period was characterized by significant oceanic upwelling, which promoted abundant marine life and provided ample feeding opportunities for large predators. The Pisco Basin, where fossils have been found, was a coastal marine environment with rich biodiversity.

As a top predator in the marine food chain, Livyatan melvillei occupied a niche similar to modern orcas, preying on large marine animals, including other whales. Its large size and robust teeth suggest it was a formidable hunter, likely capable of taking down sizable prey, contributing to its role as a dominant apex predator in its ecosystem.