Shark

Corl0207 (28225976491)

+Fossiler Haifischzahn - Größe über 9 cm - mit Krone - Schulter - Wurzel und Wurzellappen

CretaceousSharkTeeth061812

Dasyatis brevicaudata 4x3

Heterodontus japonicus

Rhinodon typicus (white background)

Sharks are a group of elasmobranch fish characterized by a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head, and pectoral fins that are not fused to the head. Modern sharks are classified within the clade Selachimorpha and are the sister group to the rays. Their lineage dates back more than 420 million years ago, making them one of the oldest existing groups of fish. Over centuries, sharks have diversified into over 500 species, ranging from the small dwarf lanternshark, which can be as small as 17 centimeters in length, to the massive whale shark, the largest fish in the ocean, which can reach lengths of up to 12 meters.

Evolution

Sharks have a long evolutionary history that traces back to the early Devonian period, over 400 million years ago, long before the age of the dinosaurs. They have evolved numerous adaptations that have allowed them to survive major extinction events. Early forms of sharks were quite different from those we see today, with many exhibiting bizarre shapes and sizes. The modern shark form was established by the Cretaceous period, approximately 100 million years ago.

Anatomy and Physiology

Sharks possess a unique anatomy and physiology that sets them apart from other fish. Their skeletons are made of cartilage, which is much lighter than bone, allowing for increased buoyancy. Sharks have several rows of sharp teeth, and as the front teeth wear down or fall out, they are replaced by new teeth growing in from the rows behind. This ensures that sharks always have sharp teeth for capturing prey.

Sharks have a highly developed sense of smell, allowing them to detect blood in the water from miles away. They also possess a sensory organ called the lateral line system, which detects vibrations and movements in the water, and the ampullae of Lorenzini, which can sense the electrical fields generated by prey.

Behavior

Sharks exhibit a wide range of behaviors. Some species are solitary, while others live in groups. Their hunting strategies vary widely among species. Some sharks are active predators that chase down their prey, while others lie in wait and ambush their targets. Sharks' reproductive methods also vary, with some species laying eggs (oviparous), while others give birth to live young (viviparous) or have a stage where the developing embryo is hatched within the uterus (ovoviviparous).

Conservation

Many shark species are now threatened with extinction due to human activities such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and the demand for shark fins for shark fin soup, a delicacy in some cultures. Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect shark populations, including marine protected areas, fishing regulations, and bans on shark finning.

Human Interaction

Sharks have been portrayed as dangerous to humans, but in reality, shark attacks are extremely rare. Humans are not natural prey for sharks. Most incidents occur due to mistaken identity or curiosity. Education and conservation efforts aim to reduce fear and promote the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems.