Hammerfish: description and interesting facts. Giant hammerhead shark: description and photo What a hammerhead shark fish looks like

The common hammerhead shark belongs to the family of hammerhead sharks of the order Carchariformes class cartilaginous fish- like the rest of her relatives. It was first described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus, a famous naturalist from Sweden. It is also called the smooth hammerhead shark or the common hammerfish.

Smooth - because it does not have a depression in the outer edge of the “hammer”, characteristic of other types, due to which it is shaped like a bow. Currently, eight species of hammerhead sharks are known to science, these are the hammerfish - roundhead, West African, Panamo-Caribbean, bronze and smallhead, as well as hammerhead sharks - giant, smalleye giant and common.

The basking hammerhead shark Sphyrna mokarran is found in the tropical waters of the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans, but does not reach large numbers, reaching a length of six meters.

Small-eyed giant shark Scalloped Hammerhead are found in the Eastern and Western Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, its length does not exceed 4.5 meters. The common hammerhead shark is similar to the giant shark in almost every way except its length.

Of the entire family, this species has the widest habitat - it can be found in almost all oceans except the North Arctic Ocean and waters tropical zone. It is difficult to determine the exact boundaries of the hammerhead shark’s habitat due to its strong similarity to other species of hammerhead sharks.

As a rule, it stays closer to the surface at a depth of less than twenty meters - but cases of encountering it at depths of up to 200 m have been recorded. This type is more popular coastal waters, but it can also be found in the open ocean, and even sometimes in fresh waters rec.

In summer, the hammerhead shark migrates to the poles, where it is cooler, and in winter it returns to the equator.

It is the second largest hammerhead shark - the basking hammerhead comes first. The length of an ordinary hammerhead shark is within 3.5 m. The largest length of this species encountered by people is 5 m, and its weight is 400 kg.

What distinguishes it from other hammerhead sharks is the shape of its head - its “hammer” is curved leading edge, and there is no notch in the center, it is quite wide and short, accounting for about 29% of the body length in diameter.

The “hammer” is actually its large and flat nose, on which the nostrils are located - closer to the edges of the “hammer”, long grooves go from them along the entire edge right to the center - they help the hammerhead fish to catch odors. Scientists believe that the shark uses this “hammer” as a rudder.

Its eyes are located on the sides of the “hammer”; they are large, golden-yellow and protected by eyelids. Five small gill slits, the last located above the pectoral fin.

There are up to 32 rows of teeth in the upper jaw and up to 30 rows of teeth in the lower jaw. The teeth are triangular in shape, beveled towards the corners of the mouth. The shark's body is streamlined, the body is covered with placoid scales with sharp edges, like most sharks. The skin color is dark brown or olive, the belly is white.

The tips of the fins may be darker. The pectoral fins and the first dorsal fin have a strongly pointed shape. There are two dorsal fins in total - the large triangular first dorsal fin is located immediately behind the pectoral fin, and the second dorsal fin is relatively small and has a sharp, seemingly elongated posterior edge.

Anal fin slightly larger than the second dorsal fin. The triangular pectoral fins are 2/3 the length of the hammerhead shark's head. Her body is slender, spindle-shaped and very flexible. The hammerhead shark is an excellent swimmer; it can reach considerable speed and maneuvers well.

As a rule, the common hammerhead shark lives alone or in small schools. During migration, they can gather in large numbers - up to hundreds or even thousands of individuals. Their young are preyed upon by larger sharks, for example, the dusky shark Carcharhinus obscurus. And in New Zealand waters, adults can become the target of attack by a pod of killer whales.

The hammerhead fish, or common hammerhead shark, is very active predator. Its diet is very varied - stingrays, bony fish and sharks, even relatives, and at worst cephalopods, crabs and shrimp. Flounder and stingrays are her favorite delicacy, which is why she prefers muddy bottoms most of all.

Its prey will not be saved by burying itself in the silt - after all, with its unusual head, the hammerhead shark detects the electric fields that its victims generate - sometimes it rushes onto the seemingly empty ground and triumphantly pulls out its prey.

Even stingray scans do not scare her; many of their poisonous spines are found in the stomachs of hammerhead sharks. Most likely, the common hammerhead shark has a strong immunity to the venom of stingrays, which allows it to eat them without hindrance. She is also not afraid of her relatives and more large sharks, and on occasion will devour them too.

The hammerhead shark is viviparous; its litter can contain 20 or more sharks. Pregnancy lasts up to 11 months, newborns can be up to 61cm long. Embryos are connected to the mother's body through the placenta. Females become sexually mature when they reach a length of 2.7 meters, and males - 2.1-2.5 meters.

The lifespan of the common hammerhead shark is 20 years. This is one of ancient fish According to scientists, this species has existed on the planet for about 25 million years. It outnumbers many other species of hammerhead sharks. She looks terrifying. Everyone who saw her considers her the most scary fish in the ocean. Its description can be found on the pages of Jules Verne's novels.

This shark is potentially dangerous to humans, among the most dangerous predators it ranks third - after white and tiger sharks. Cases of hammerhead shark attacks on humans have been recorded, some with fatal, and in the stomach of one of them they found a human torso. As a rule, cases of attacks become more frequent during the breeding season, because for this it goes into coastal waters, so beloved by swimmers, and popular beach places.

Therefore, you should never enter the water unless the beach is fenced with anti-shark nets. Another reason for shark aggression can be hunger - if suddenly its favorite food disappears in its usual habitat, it may well replace it with a human.

With the end of the breeding season, cases of hammerhead shark attacks on humans become extremely rare. In short, you need to try really hard to get a hammerhead shark to attack you. However, experts believe that any shark longer than a meter poses a danger to humans.

Sharks can smell blood in water even in the smallest concentration. According to official statistics, from 40 to 300 people die annually from attacks by all large sharks. It is impossible to say exactly what proportion of this number are killed by the common hammerhead shark.

If suddenly, while at depth, you find a hammerhead shark nearby, try not to move, flounder or wave your arms and legs so as not to attract its attention - wait for help or swim slowly into coastal waters. Try not to touch the shark's body - you can easily get hurt by the scales covering its skin, and then it will definitely show interest in you, smelling your blood. Be as careful as possible - then you will have a pretty good chance of staying alive.

But the common hammerhead shark itself is also an object of industrial fishing for humans around the world. Shark meat is dried, smoked and salted, but it is little valued, and there are cases of poisoning. But its fins take the number one place in the ranking for making shark fin soup.

Therefore, most often the hunt for hammerhead sharks is barbaric in nature - they are caught, their fins are cut off and thrown back into the water to die. Shark oil is added to vitamins, the skin is tanned, and the by-products are suitable for the production of fishmeal. Hammerhead shark is widely used to make all kinds of medicines in Chinese medicine.

By classification International Union Nature Conservation This species of hammerhead shark is “vulnerable”, and it is listed with this status in the Red Book. In many countries, the catching of these fish for the purpose of obtaining fins is already prohibited, and in New Zealand, hunting for them is completely prohibited.

This animal belongs to the class of cartilaginous fish and is part of the order Carchariformes. The family to which the hammerhead fish belongs is called hammerhead sharks.

The main “highlight” in the appearance of this fish is undoubtedly its head, or, more precisely, its shape. The front part ends in long and narrow projections diverging horizontally to the sides. This whole “structure” resembles a construction tool – a hammer. Hence the name of the animal.

Scientists know nine species of hammerhead sharks, differing in color, size, head shape and the waters in which they live. This whole family is divided into two genera: Eusphyra and Sphyrna. In the first group there is only one representative - the wing-headed shark. Her “hammer” is equal in size to almost half of her body, and the width of her head differs from other representatives of this family. There are eight more “sisters” in the second group, the largest of which can reach 6 meters. This entire family is related to felids, mustelids and gray sharks.

Many people are attracted by the way the hammerfish looks. The body of the predator is practically no different from the shark we are used to. It has a streamlined shape, and the color varies depending on the genus. Basically, the back is dark (gray, brown), and the belly is light. But it is the head that is of particular interest. Its shape is T-shaped. The structure of the head itself depends on the “breed” of the predator, it can be large or, on the contrary, have a small size. But the main thing is that each individual has a unique shape, which is why it is called a hammerfish. The eyes are located at the ends of the “processes” of the head. These fish are able to see 360 degrees. It is interesting that in these predators the vision depends on the latitude of the “hammer”. The larger it is, the better the area in front of it is visible.

Hammerhead sharks are a fast, cunning and extremely resourceful predator that is not afraid of almost anything and easily attacks humans. On the “pedestal of danger”, the hammerhead shark ranks third, second only to white and tiger shark. History contains many exciting facts that are associated with hammerhead fish. For example, in one of these sharks caught, the corpse of a man was discovered, which entirely fit into the belly of this merciless killer.

Its usual habitat is warm waters, but this does not prevent the shark from feeling quite comfortable in cool waters. northern waters. Possessing body length from 4 to 7 meters, the hammerhead fish is “armed” with the amazing abilities of an unsurpassed predator, which are reflected in the structure of its strong and incredibly flexible body.

Evolution, which has been perfecting this shark for more than two tens of millions of years, has endowed it with everything it needs. Ultra-strong, razor-sharp teeth, which are arranged in several rows, and are capable of literally tearing apart any victim in a matter of seconds. The natural camouflage coloring of the body makes it practically invisible in the water column.

Powerful fins and strong muscles allow them to develop tremendous speed. Unparalleled sensory organs are capable of finding prey many kilometers away, perceiving electromagnetic signals, sensing blood and even the fear of their prey. And the shark’s head itself, which is shaped like a hammer, gives the predator phenomenal maneuverability, becoming a movement stabilizer and leaving virtually no chance for the prey to escape.

All this suggests that if a hammerhead fish has chosen a target, then there is little that can save that target. The weight of a hammerhead shark can reach several hundred kilograms, and the largest specimen caught weighed 363 kilograms, with a length of almost 8 meters.

The hammerhead fish is at the top of the food chain, without any direct enemies. This allows her to special risk attack any fish and mammals that live in sea waters. The cunning, strength and dexterity of this predator are very often the key to victory over an opponent larger than itself.

The hammerhead shark, like its closest relatives - other sharks, does not have an air bubble in the structure of its body. To maintain its buoyancy, it has to constantly move, which means looking for prey and always being “alert.” It is almost impossible to take this shark by surprise. She always imposes her terms of the “game” on the victim and always turns out to be the winner.

The shape of the head is not the only thing that attracts hammerhead fish. The description of how these predators reproduce is also surprising. They are viviparous, while other fish spawn. Mothers carry their young in much the same way as mammals. At birth, the baby’s “hammer” is turned towards the body so that it can be born without difficulty. Gradually, the head of the fish becomes like that of adults.

At one time, a mother can bring from 15 to 30 babies, who are already “taught” to swim well. The length of each reaches approximately half a meter. But after a few months they become one meter tall and show aggression, like all adults.

The hammerhead shark menu is quite intricate. And if the basis of the diet is crabs, shrimp, shellfish, fish and squid, then the real delicacy for predators is flounder and stingrays, which is why many sharks have chosen a habitat related to this type of prey - the muddy bottom of the sea.

It happened that there were more on the menu large inhabitants ocean, including stingrays, whose poisonous spines did not cause any harm to predators. It seems that the shark’s body is capable of developing immunity to the poisons of the living creatures that they are not averse to feeding on.

If a predator has spotted a prey, the latter, given the speed and maneuverability of the shark, has very little chance of salvation. And due to the fact that the bodies of all creatures emit electrical signals, potential prey has no chance of hiding in the ground.

Driven by emitted impulses, the hammerhead shark unerringly finds shelter and removes the resisting prey from the sand.

Since the hammerhead shark is a pelagic fish, it chooses a depth from the surface of the ocean to 400 meters in depth. However, these predators happen to swim into lagoons and coastal areas.

As for geographical preferences, these fish are comfortable with the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans.

However, the northern European shores are also familiar with this individual with a sledgehammer instead of a head. But the most favorite place of all hammerhead predators, where they are drawn by an unknown magnetic force, is the Hawaiian Islands. Therefore, it was the Hawaiian Institute of Marine Biology that became the main center for the study of these fish.

Unusual shape head makes the hammerhead shark stand out from all its other brethren. Despite all the fame and cinematic popularity of the white shark, not everyone will accurately identify its species when they meet it, but the hammerhead shark will not be confused with any other.

How did it happen that fate rewarded this individual with such a remarkable appearance? There are several versions on this matter.

If we adhere to the basic theory, then the characteristic “hammer”, instead of the standard wedge-shaped head, was formed gradually and for a very long time, over many millions of years, with each passing era expanding a little more in breadth and, in after all, acquiring the form we see today.

Who knows, maybe the process is not completed yet and after a couple of temporary turns the shark’s head will look completely terrifying?

However, recent genetic research break previous assumptions about the results obtained during numerous examinations. Some scientists are inclined to believe that these sharks acquired their exclusive head shape suddenly - as a result of an unexpected mutation.

Thanks to its size, powerful jaws, and in general, creepy looking, this predator is devoid of direct enemies in its habitat. It is unlikely that any of the underwater animals will dare to attack such a monster. It is not recommended for people to approach this insidious creature.

She may swim past and not pay attention to the diver, but it is better not to provoke her. Unfortunately, there is little chance of escape from such powerful jaws.

In some Asian countries, these sharks are popular among fishermen; real hunts are organized for them. It is believed that the liver of hammerhead fish is rich in fats that are valuable for human body. The bones of this fish are used to make so-called bone meal.

This fish got its name for a reason. It is distinguished by its head shape, which in appearance resembles a hammer.

Family: Hammerhead sharks

Class: Cartilaginous fish

Order: Carchariformes

Type: Chordata

Kingdom: Animals

Domain: Eukaryotes

Parameter name	Meaning
Hammerhead size	From 0.9 m to 6 meters (The width of the “hammer” can be up to 40-50% of the body length)
Hammerhead weight	From 3 to 500 kg.
What does hammerhead fish eat?	The main food is small bony fish, as well as cephalopods and crustaceans.
Where does the hammerhead fish live?	The hammerhead fish or hammerhead shark is found in warm tropical coastal waters. You can meet them off the coast of all continents except Antarctica.

Hammerhead video

Reproduction of hammerhead fish

Hammerhead fish are viviparous fish. The embryo develops inside the mother and is nourished by the placenta. Pregnancy lasts from 8 to 11 months. On average, from 8 to 25 sharks are born at one time. At the same time, their height is very small - only up to 45 cm.

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Oceans and seas have always attracted man, revealing unknown depths, many secrets and mysteries. And to this day, despite numerous scientific expeditions and the colossal work of oceanographers, the depths of " big water“There are still many secrets hidden under the veil of secrecy.

flickr/Eric Orchin

The hammerhead shark deserves special attention, which can rightfully be called one of the most ferocious and merciless predators depths of the sea. The study of this predator has revealed many amazing things and frightening facts that are unique to this hunter.

Hammerhead sharks (lat. Sphyrnidae) are a fast, cunning and extremely resourceful predator that is not afraid of almost anything and easily attacks humans. On the “danger pedestal,” the hammerhead shark ranks third, second only to the tiger shark. History contains many exciting facts that are associated with hammerhead fish. For example, in one of these sharks caught, the corpse of a man was discovered, which entirely fit into the belly of this merciless killer.

Its usual habitat is warm waters, but this does not prevent the shark from feeling quite comfortable in cool northern waters. Possessing a body length of 4 to 7 meters, the hammerfish is “armed” with the amazing abilities of an unsurpassed predator, which are reflected in the structure of its strong and incredibly flexible body.

The hammerhead fish is at the top of the food chain, without any direct enemies. This allows it to attack any fish and mammals that live in sea waters without much risk. The cunning, strength and dexterity of this predator are very often the key to victory over an opponent larger than itself.

One of the most amazing inhabitants of the underwater depths is the hammerhead fish. Although it may seem harmless, in fact this predator poses a danger even to humans.

Family Hammerheads

Scientists know nine species of hammerhead sharks, differing in color, size, head shape and the waters in which they live. This whole family is divided into two genera: Eusphyra and Sphyrna. In the first group there is only one representative - the wing-headed shark. Her “hammer” is equal in size to almost half of her body, and the width of her head distinguishes her from other representatives of this family. There are eight more “sisters” in the second group, the largest of which can reach 6 meters. This entire family is related to felids, mustelids and gray sharks.

Appearance

Many people are attracted by the way the hammerhead fish looks. The body of the predator is practically no different from the shark we are used to. It has a streamlined shape, and the color varies depending on the genus. Basically, the back is dark (gray, brown), and the belly is light. But it is the head that is of particular interest. Its shape is T-shaped. The structure of the head itself depends on the “breed” of the predator; it can be large or, conversely, small in size. But the main thing is that each individual has a unique shape, which is why it is called a hammerhead fish. The photo can be seen below. The eyes are located at the ends of the “processes” of the head. These fish are able to see 360 degrees. It is interesting that in these predators the vision depends on the latitude of the “hammer”. The larger it is, the better the area in front of it is visible.

What does it eat?

The hammerhead is a predator that feeds on other fish, shellfish, skates and crayfish. It is known that these sharks are not afraid even of stingrays, so their diet may include these underwater inhabitants. This fish has a very flexible body, which allows you to make deft maneuvers without giving the victim a chance to break away. In addition, powerful fins give the fish speed. The shape of the head serves as a kind of stabilizer when moving. All these characteristics make the hammerhead shark a winner in fights, even with an opponent that is larger than it. In addition, agility allows her to attack not only predatory fish, but also on mammals.

Although the hammerhead is a fearless hunter, it is a lazy fish. Therefore, some sailors noticed how schools of these sharks followed huge ships for several days, feeding on waste that people threw overboard.

Danger to humans

Looking at the small mouth of a hammerhead shark located at the bottom of its head, you can hardly say that it poses a danger to humans. Of course, this predator does not specifically hunt people, but still it is in third place in the number of attacks on vacationers. The fact is that hammerhead fish become very aggressive during the breeding season, and to breed young they swim to warm waters off the coast. It is in these places that holidaymakers usually relax. In a fight with this creature, a person never remains victorious.

But hammerhead sharks also become victims of people because they are a valuable fishery product. The fins, liver and meat of the predator are highly valued in cooking. These parts are very tasty and are in huge demand. The remains are ground into flour, from which fish products are prepared. In addition, shark skin is no less valuable.

Reproduction

The shape of the head is not the only thing that attracts hammerhead fish. The description of how these predators reproduce is also surprising. They are viviparous, while other fish spawn. Mothers bear their young in much the same way as mammals. At birth, the baby’s “hammer” is turned towards the body so that it can be born without difficulty. Gradually, the head of the fish becomes like that of adults.

Habitats

These sharks prefer to be in temperate and warm waters. They can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. While the fish is still young, it stays in shallow water or at the bottom of bays. In these places it is easier for them to acquire the skill of a hunter. Growing up, they go deep-sea diving.