Glossary |
Anal fin: a single fin located on the underside of of most sharks, behind the anus.
Barbels: Whisker-like sensory projections that extend from the nostrils in some sharks. Dorsal fin: the famous, triangular fin most associated with sharks, located on the shark's back. Some sharks have just one and others have two, a larger anterior one and a smaller posterior one. Dermal denticles: teeth-like growths on the shark's skin. These form different shapes in different species. Nictating eyelid: an eyelid that closes to protect the eye at the moment of attacking prey Oviphagy or oophagy: the fetuses obtain nourishment by feeding on unfertilized eggs or siblings Oviparous: animals hatch from eggs outside the body Viviparity: animals hatch from eggs while still inside the female's body and are nourished via a placenta. Ovoviviparous (Aplacental Viviparity): animals hatch from eggs that develop with no placenta while still inside the female's body. Pectoral fin: a pair of fins just behind the gills. Pelvic fins: a pair of fins on the underside of the shark between the pectoral and anal fin. Spiracle: a gill slit found in some sharks behind the eyes providing oxygen directly to the eyes and brain. Terminal mouth: Mouth that opens at front end of head with upper and lower jaws equal |