Dogfish Dissection

Front

What is the function of the Pectoral Fin in sharks?

Back

The Pectoral Fin helps sharks to steer, maintain balance, and stabilize their movement in the water.

Front

Why do some sharks need to swim continuously?

Back

Sharks must swim continuously to ensure water flows over their gills, allowing them to extract oxygen.

Front

What are gill slits in sharks?

Back

Gill slits are openings that allow water to flow over the gills for respiration, typically found on the sides of a shark's head.

Front

What is a major reason sharks are vulnerable to extinction?

Back

Sharks have very few pups at a time and take a long time to reach sexual maturity, making their populations slow to recover.

Front

What is countershading in fish?

Back

Countershading is a color pattern where the dorsal (top) side is darker than the ventral (bottom) side, helping fish avoid predators from above and below.

Front

What role do spiracles play in sharks?

Back

Spiracles are small openings behind the eyes that allow sharks to take in water for respiration, especially when they are resting on the ocean floor.

Front

How do sharks maintain buoyancy in water?

Back

Sharks have a large oil-filled liver that helps them maintain buoyancy and reduces the need for constant swimming.

Front

What is the significance of the lateral line system in sharks?

Back

The lateral line system is a sensory organ that detects vibrations and movement in the water, helping sharks locate prey and navigate.

Front

What adaptations do sharks have for hunting?

Back

Sharks have sharp teeth, keen senses, and a streamlined body shape that make them effective predators.

Front

What is the difference between oviparous and viviparous sharks?

Back

Oviparous sharks lay eggs, while viviparous sharks give birth to live young.