What the world's largest and smallest sharks look like. Photo

When it comes to sharks, many people think of the movie "Jaws" with its giant, ruthless marine predators. However, there are many species of sharks in nature, from the famous great white shark or hammerhead to very small representatives.

According to scientists, the largest shark in the world is the whale shark, which reaches 20 meters in length. But the smallest of this species of marine predators is the dwarf lanternshark, which grows by some 20 centimeters, writes IflScience.

The smallest shark in the world

Dwarf lanternsharks are rare members of the lanternshark genus Etmopterus, which is difficult to catch. According to the researchers, they are known only from a few sightings and accidental catches off the coast of South America.

The population of these babies lives in the western part of the central Atlantic at a depth of 283 to 439 meters.

According to scientists, dwarf lanternsharks can reach a maximum of 21.2 centimeters in total length. In a 2021 study, 153 individuals were caught to study the population structure. At that time, one dwarf lanternshark was found that measured 28.9 centimeters long, representing a new maximum body length for this species.

This manta ray has very large eyes that maximize the amount of light available to it in the dark depths of the ocean. In its mouth, scientists counted more than 60 sharp teeth.

The largest shark in the world

According to researchers, the largest shark in the world is the whale shark, which is up to 20 meters long. It can weigh up to 34 tons.

Despite its large size, the whale shark is absolutely safe for humans, as it feeds exclusively on plankton and other small organisms that it filters out by drawing in water.

Whale sharks are gray, brown, or bluish, with the belly lighter and the back covered with light stripes and spots. They have two dorsal fins, as well as pectoral and anal fins, and five-gill slits, scientists say.

These giants live an average of 70 years in the oceans and warm seas near the tropics. Although some specimens have been observed in colder waters, such as off the coast of New York, experts say.

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