Greenland Shark
Somniosus microcephalus
- Group: Shark
- Typical depth: 0–2992 m
- Max size: 4.3 m
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: VU
One of the longest lived vertebrates on Earth, this cold water giant grows past four metres and may not breed until it is over a century old. It roams Arctic and North Atlantic shelves and slopes from the surface down to nearly 3,000 metres, scavenging carrion and ambushing seals. Its flesh is laced with toxins and must be treated before it is safe to eat.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Squaliformes › Somniosidae › Somniosus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 105919.
FAQ
- How deep does the Greenland Shark live?
- The Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus) is typically found at 0–2992 m.
- Is the Greenland Shark dangerous to divers?
- The Greenland Shark is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Greenland Shark get?
- The Greenland Shark grows to about 4.3 m.