Greenland Shark
Common Name: Greenland Shark, Sleeper Shark, Gurry Shark
Scientific Name: Somniosus microcephalus
Size: Up to 6.4m
Found: North Atlantic
Population Status: Near Threatened (IUCN 2009)
Tooth Shape:
Greenland Sharks are thought to feed on various
types of fish including herring and salmon, invertebrates
and sea birds.
They also feed on marine mammals including seals and
cetaceans.
Reproduction:
Ovoviviparous - eggs hatch inside the mother and live young
are born. Litters of up to 10 pups have been recorded.
Pups are around 38cm at birth.
Interesting Facts:
The Greenland Shark appears to be a slow growing species. Tagging studies have suggested that some of the adults may grow at a rate of only 1cm per year.
Mostly found in cold waters between 2 - 7 degrees C
Luminescent copepods can be found attached to the sharks eyes. This is thought to possibly attract prey.
A dead Greenland Shark was found with a reindeer in its stomach!