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Megamouth Shark

The megamouth shark is a rare and unusual shark species that occupies all major oceans in both temperate and tropical waters. 

 

Aptly named for its massive mouth, the megamouth shark is the smallest of the three filter-feeding sharks, however it can still reach lengths up to around 9.1 meters (30 feet) long. They have a distinct, white-colored hand on their top jaw that may serve as both a lure for their prey in dim light and possibly as a way for megamouth sharks to recognize each other.  

This shark can be found in coastal waters, on continental shelves, and offshore in the open ocean at varying depths from as deep as 4,572 meters (15,000 feet) down to waters as shallow as approximately 4.8 meters (16 feet) deep.  

As filter feeders, the megamouth shark feeds by slowly swimming through groups of tiny krill or other small prey. By opening their large mouths and protruding their jaws, they suck prey inside and expel excess water out through their gills.  

 

 

Despite their size, the megamouth shark was only discovered by scientists in 1976! As of 2023, there have only been 273 confirmed sightings.  

Not much is known about the species, but it is occasionally caught accidentally by fishers (also known as bycatch). They are currently globally classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, though some scientists fear that if the megamouth shark faces significantly increased pressure from fisheries, it would be put at an elevated risk of extinction.  

 

 

While more research is needed to fully understand the human-caused threats the megamouth shark may face, you can learn more about Oceana’s campaigns to stop bycatch through responsible fishing.  

 

 

 

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