Goblin Shark stands out among all shark species for its unusual appearance which is characterized by a flattened snout that protrudes from the top of its head. This snout resembles the blade of a sword. These sharks have a huge range that includes much of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
They prefer deep water. This shark is also known as the Vampire Shark because of its scary looking appearance and it avoids the light by living deep in the sea. The scientific name of this shark is Mitsukurina Owstoni.
Quick Facts: –
- Goblin shark’s jaws are attached to elastic ligaments and while hunting, it thrusts its jaw forward.
- These sharks are flabby, soft-bodied predators with small fins and a flexible tail.
- They have a noticeably long head, tiny eyes and five short gill openings. Their mouth is large and parabolic in shape.
- Their mouth opens to an incredible 111-degree angle.
- This shark is the only living member of the Mitsukurinidae family which likely evolved during the Cretaceous period when dinosaurs roamed our planet.
- It is a medium-sized shark. Adult individuals measure between 3-4 meters in length, and the weight can reach 200-210 kilograms.
- Goblin Shark is carnivorous and its diet consists of teleost fishes, ostracods, squids, crabs, and cephalopods.
- They are sluggish and catch their prey in low-light conditions.
- These sharks have a worldwide distribution. They can be found in all the world’s major oceans.
- Scientists don’t know much about the behavior of these rarely seen animals.
