![]() ![]() The zebra shark’s respiratory system involves five pairs of gill slits located on either side of the head just behind the eyes. The teeth are used to break down hard-shelled prey before passing it into the esophagus where it moves towards the stomach, where acids break down proteins into amino acids that tissues can absorb throughout the body.įrom there, digested material passes into a muscular intestine where nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals are further broken down and absorbed before leaving through an anus located at the end of a long tube called the cloaca which also serves as an excretory organ for eliminating waste products from metabolism. The digestive system of zebra sharks starts at the mouth, where food is ingested. The vertebral column supports most of the body’s weight while providing flexibility for movement. An opening at the top of the head through which water enters and exits during respiration.The skull houses the brain, eyes, and sensory organs.The skeleton supports the muscles, allowing them to move efficiently and protecting internal organs. The skeletal system of the zebra shark consists of cartilaginous bones and jointed appendages called fins. See also Can Sharks Smell Fear? Skeletal System This camouflage can also act as an effective warning system when disturbed, the Zebra Shark often flashes its stripes in a defensive display. The zebra-like markings are thought to help the shark blend into its environment, making it difficult for potential predators (or prey) to spot them. Though their unique patterns may appear only decorative, they have a purpose. Through its unique coloring, behaviors, and predatory habits, the Zebra Shark has earned itself a reputation as one of nature’s most remarkable species – a claim that is backed up by its scientific name ‘Stigostoma Fasciatum’ which translates literally as ‘striped in bands.’ These horizontal stripes are found on juvenile Zebra Sharks, fading to spots as they reach adulthood. The Zebra Shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) gets its name from the distinctive markings that adorn its brownish-grey skin, resembling the pattern of a zebra. They have an average lifespan of 25-30 years in the wild. The conservation status of the zebra shark is ‘endangered’ due to a variety of threats, including overfishing and habitat loss.ġ0. These sharks are also featured in a few movies, including Shark Tale.ĩ. Zebra sharks can survive for an hour out of the water if kept moist, which is a unique trait among sharks.Ĩ. They are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs rather than give birth to live young.ħ. However, they can also survive in fresh and brackish water.Ħ. This courtship ritual involves the male biting the female gently on her pectoral fins to initiate copulation.ĥ. During mating season, males and females can be observed performing a “dance” before mating. Zebra sharks often swim in pairs or small groups.Ĥ. They reach sexual maturity around 5-7 years of age, which is longer than many other shark species.ģ. Zebra Shark got its name from the pattern of stripes or patches appearing on younger sharks’ bodies.Ģ. Read on to learn more about their anatomy, diet, habitat, reproduction, and others. Nocturnal animals actively swim around hunting for food during the night hours. During the day, they search for food while sleeping near the seafloor or hiding in crevices at night. The Zebra Shark prefers shallow coastal waters, shallow coral reefs, lagoons, and deeper ocean floors where they can find hiding places among rocks or sand. Its skin is covered with dark markings resembling stripes – hence its common name – and has striking white spots covering its head. The Zebra Shark has a slender body with a long snout and two dorsal fins located far back on its body. It is an active predator that feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The Zebra Shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) is a species of carpet shark found in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. ![]() Zebra Shark at a Glance Category Information Common Names Zebra Shark Other Name Leopard Shark, Stegostoma Shark Scientific Name Stegostoma fasciatum Order Orectolobiformes Family Stegostomatidae Diet Benthic invertebrates, small fish, crustaceans Habitat Coral reefs, sandy and muddy bottoms, shallow waters Distribution Western Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Red Sea Size Upto 12 feet Weight Up to 30 kilograms (65 lbs) Life Expectancy 25-30 years Reproduction Oviparous (lay eggs) Conservation Status Endangered Now, as intriguing and mesmerizing as their name is-there are so many fascinating facts about them that make one want to learn more. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |