Giant octopuses were apex predators, according to new study

(CNN, KYMA) - A new discovery is reshaping our understanding of ancient ocean ecosystems.

Scientists say giant octopuses, stretching up to 62-feet long, may have have sat at the top of the food chain more than 100 million years ago.

The findings come from a study published Thursday in the journal "Science."

Researchers found signs of heavy wear on well-preserved fossils of octopus jaws, suggesting the creatures crushed hard prey like shells, bones and possibly marine reptiles.

Until now, scientists believed sharks and marine reptiles dominated the seas, but they say this discovery hints that giant octopuses may have been top predators.