What kind of shark is the great hammerhead shark?

The great hammerhead shark is the largest of all hammerhead shark species. Their most distinctive feature is their hammer-shaped head, called a 'cephalofoil.'

The cephalofoil extends laterally on both sides of the head, with eyes and nostrils located at the tips. They are aptly named 'Great Hammerhead Sharks' in English – truly 'great sharks' with hammer-like heads!

What is the purpose of the great hammerhead shark's hammer-shaped head?

The great hammerhead shark's cephalofoil is a remarkable adaptation that helps them survive in the ocean.

・Wide field of vision: With eyes positioned on the cephalofoil, they have a wider field of vision than other sharks, allowing them to locate prey and avoid predators more effectively.

・Enhanced sense of smell: The cephalofoil also functions as an olfactory organ, and by swinging it from side to side, they can detect the scent of prey from a wider area.

・Electroreceptors: The cephalofoil has a high concentration of electroreceptors called 'ampullae of Lorenzini,' which can detect the weak electrical fields generated by other organisms. They use these receptors to find prey hidden in the sand and detect the presence of predators.

・Lift: The cephalofoil acts like an airplane wing, generating lift, allowing them to move through the water with less energy.

・Maneuverability: The cephalofoil also acts as a rudder, enabling them to make quick turns in the water.

It's a truly multifunctional hammer!

What do great hammerhead sharks eat?

Great hammerhead sharks are carnivores, primarily feeding on stingrays, sharks, squid, octopus, and crustaceans. They use the 'ampullae of Lorenzini' in their cephalofoil to locate stingrays hidden in the sand.

Once they find a stingray, they pin it to the seabed using their cephalofoil and use their sharp teeth to bite and kill it. They also eat other types of fish and sea turtles.

[Quiz!] Do great hammerhead sharks lay eggs or give birth to live young?

Great hammerhead sharks reproduce through a method called 'ovoviviparity.' This means that the eggs hatch inside the mother's body, and the pups are born live.

Females give birth to 6 to 55 pups at a time. The pups are independent from birth and take about 10 years to reach adult size.

[Quiz!] Are great hammerhead sharks dangerous to humans?

Great hammerhead sharks can attack humans. They are a dangerous species because of their large size and powerful jaws.

However, they do not actively hunt humans. In most cases, attacks occur when humans enter their territory or provoke them. If you encounter a great hammerhead shark, do not approach or touch it, and calmly leave the area.

[Quiz!] Are great hammerhead sharks endangered?

Unfortunately, the great hammerhead shark is listed as Endangered on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List. Their population is declining due to overfishing and habitat destruction.

The demand for shark fins, a delicacy in some cultures, is a major problem. To protect great hammerhead sharks, it is crucial to regulate overfishing, conserve their habitat, and raise awareness. Choosing not to consume shark fin soup is one way we can contribute to their protection.