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Bonnethead Shark

on March 3, 2008

This shark is a grayish-brown color on its dorsal side with a lighter underside. It has small teeth in the front of its mouth and broad teeth in the back.

Bonnethead Shark

Design

An unusual feature of this shark is its ability to produce a special fluid called “cerebrospinal fluid.” It is thought that the shark uses this fluid to communicate with other sharks in its area. This special ability shows the creativity and ability of its Creator.

Features

  • This shark is a grayish-brown color on its dorsal side with a lighter underside.
  • It has small teeth in the front of its mouth and broad teeth in the back.

Fun Facts

  • The bonnethead shark is also called the shovelhead shark.
  • This is the smallest shark in its family.
  • It inhabits waters that are usually warmer than 70°F (21°C).
  • During the summer, the bonnethead shark is common in the waters of the Carolinas and Georgia.

CLASS: Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish—sharks, skates, and rays)

ORDER: Carcharhiniformes (ground sharks)

FAMILY: Sphyrnidae

(bonnethead sharks, hammerhead sharks, and scoophead sharks)

GENUS/SPECIES: Sphyrna tiburo

Size: Up to 5 ft (1.6 m)

Depth: Commonly found 33–82 ft (10–25 m)

Diet: Crustaceans, mollusks, small fish

Habitat: Waters of the Western Atlantic, from Rhode Island and North Carolina to the Caribbean Sea and southern Brazil; waters of the Eastern Pacific, from Southern California to Ecuador

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Aquarium Guide

Aquarium Guide

With fun facts about more than 100 animals, this long-awaited Aquarium Guide includes beautiful pictures and reveals the incredible facts and design features that point to our amazing Creator. This handy size guide is excellent for school field trips and family trips to your favorite aquarium!

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