Dwarf Shark Adaptations

The dwarf lantern shark and the dwarf gulper shark are the two smallest species of sharks known to mankind. An average full-grown dwarf lantern shark can fit into the palm of a human hand, though large lantern sharks may reach about 8 inches in length. The dwarf gulper shark only reaches 2 feet in length. Despite their small size, these sharks have evolved with several adaptations to help them survive in the sea.

  1. Gills

    • Gills were among the earliest of adaptations for the fish creatures Agnathans, which would later evolve into several fish species, including sharks. All sharks are equipped with five to seven pairs of gills located on the sides of their head. Sharks use these gills to breathe. Their gills can take oxygen directly out of the water, enabling them to stay in the water without coming to the surface to breathe. This adaptation makes it possible for them to stalk prey and protect themselves.

    Fins

    • All sharks developed several sets of fins during the course of evolution to adapt to their oceanic environment. They use these fins to accommodate various movements. Dwarf sharks are equipped with five sets of rigid fins. Pectoral fins lift the shark in the water while pelvic and anal fins stabilize movements. Dorsal fins help sharks move from side to side while the tail fin propels the shark forward.

    Teeth

    • Dwarf sharks' teeth are arranged in rows, which are continuously replaced as the teeth are lost or damaged. This adaptation is particularly useful as sharks hunt and eat with their mouth only. Dwarf sharks' teeth are larger in the lower jaw than the upper teeth and are shaped for slicing and grasping. This indicates that their teeth adapted to help them catch their favorite foods such as crustaceans, shrimp, squid and jellyfish.

    Body Shape

    • Most sharks, including the dwarf shark species, have developed torpedo-shaped bodies that help them quickly move in the water. For the dwarf sharks, this body adaptation is helpful for quickly swimming away from predators or through reefs after prey.