Though they’ve been around long before we walked this Earth, sharks are still a group of fish that fascinate us to this day. There are many reasons for this. Firstly, they are one of the apex predators found in our oceans, with the ability to claim life in an instant. It can also have something to do with their immense size, razor sharp teeth, and sometimes odd appearances. Whatever the case may be, dozens of marine biologists and marine lovers alike try to find as much information about sharks as they possibly can.
Luckily, you can find all the information about sharks that you’ll like at Sharksider. Our team of marine experts has created a website that is your go-to destination for anything shark-related. Whether you’re curious about a hammerhead shark’s diet, or the strength of a great white shark jaw, we have it covered!
If you’re a lover of sharks or just nature in general, let us provide you with some general information about sharks in order for you to develop a better understanding of these fascinating, and often brilliant, sea creatures.
Physical Characteristics
Firstly, there are approximately 460 known shark species living in our oceans today. They belong to a family of fish whose skeletons are made up of cartilage rather than bone. Cartilage is a tissue that is a lot more flexible and lighter than bone. We humans have cartilage is specific areas of our body, including our ears and nose. This material allows sharks to more durable when traveling through the ocean and exploring the ocean floor.
The skin of a shark is also something to be aware of. The shark’s skin consists of a collection of scales that act as an outer skeleton for the fish species. This, along with cartilage makeup of the fish, allows the shark to have easy movement in the ocean, along with the ability to save energy when it needs it most.
Sharks, like other fish, possess gills in order to breathe underwater. They generally have about five to seven-gill slits that are located on either side of their bodies. These gills filter the ocean water in order to obtain the oxygen that is necessary for these creatures to survive. Think of these gills as the “lungs” of the shark.
Fearsome Teeth And A Big Appetite
Probably the most recognizable, and at the same time, most fearsome, part of the shark is their teeth. All sharks have multiple rows of teeth, which help them attack and ingest prey. Unlike humans, these teeth will fall out on a regular basis, being replaced with brand teeth in the process. These teeth, along with their powerful jaws, are what make sharks an apex predator in our oceans.
Speaking of teeth and prey, let’s provide some more information about sharks by talking about their usual diet. Unlike Hollywood movies, sharks don’t have a craving for humans. While shark attacks do occur, it’s not because these sharks are outwardly looking for human prey. These accidents usually occur because a human swimmer gets too close to a shark’s territory, or they are mistaken for a seal (which is common since most swimsuits that surfers use are silky black just like the fur of a seal.). Instead, sharks will feast on small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, plankton, krill, marine mammals, and even other sharks.
One of the most fascinating shark facts to consider is their ability to detect blood in the ocean water. That’s one aspect of Hollywood that actually holds true in real life. Sharks have the ability to detect blood from miles away, allowing them to identify their next meal from long distances. If you are swimming in shark waters and cut yourself, make your way to the shore as quick as you can!
Obtain More Information At Sharksider!
There is a lot more information about sharks and their ways at our website! Our team of experts will go over aspects of life such as habitat, behavior, and reproduction! We also provide extensive looks into specific shark species, such as the hammerhead and the great white shark! Did this information about sharks peek your interests? If so, please browse the rest of our website today!