Sphyrna zygaena

Carchariniformes

Probably the most distinctive of all shark species, hammerhead sharks are easily identifiable by the hammer-like shape of their heads. There are about 10 species of hammerhead worldwide, some of which grow to over six metres in length and are known to have been involved in attacks on humans.

The smooth hammerhead is one of the most common species, typically occurring in quite large schools in shallow water. Nobody quite knows why hammerheads have evolved their curious head shape. Some biologists think that it gives them a sensory advantage for finding prey, while others believe that it helps the sharks remain buoyant in the water. The fins of hammerheads are particularly prized as food items in eastern Asia, although finning of hammerheads and other sharks is now banned in many countries.

Maximum size: 5.5 metres / 400kg

Distribution: Temperate waters worldwide, from southern Canada to Chile and New Zealand.

Diet: Fish, crustaceans and cephalopods.

Reproduction: Viviparous. Litters from 20-40 pups.