* Electroreception: Hammerheads possess special sensory organs called ampullae of Lorenzini on their hammer-shaped heads. These organs detect the weak electrical fields produced by the muscles of their prey, allowing them to locate fish even in murky or dark waters.
* Wide Sweep: The hammerhead's wide head allows it to cover a large area while searching for prey. As it swims, it sweeps its head back and forth, using its electroreceptors to pinpoint the location of fish.
* Surprise Attack: Once a fish is located, the hammerhead quickly strikes, using its powerful jaws to snatch the prey.
* Teeth: Hammerhead sharks have rows of sharp, backward-facing teeth designed for gripping and tearing. They use these teeth to subdue and consume their prey.
* Diet: Hammerhead sharks primarily feed on bony fish, rays, and cephalopods (squid and octopus). They are opportunistic feeders and will also eat crustaceans, turtles, and even other sharks.
Specific Examples:
* Scalloped hammerheads are known to chase and corner schools of fish, using their wide head to herd them into a tight group before attacking.
* Great hammerheads are ambush predators, lurking on the seabed and ambushing prey that passes by.
In summary: Hammerhead sharks use their specialized hammer-shaped head to detect, locate, and capture fish, employing electroreception, a wide sweep pattern, and sharp teeth to subdue and consume their prey.