Goblin Shark Jaw

Goblin shark jaw.

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The Goblin Shark (Mitsukurina owstoni) is a rare and distinctive species of deep-sea shark, often referred to as a "living fossil" due to its ancient lineage. This shark is known for its unusual appearance, which is markedly different from more familiar sharks.

Key Characteristics of the Goblin Shark:

1. Appearance: The most striking feature of the Goblin Shark is its elongated, flattened snout, which looks somewhat like a blade. Its skin is a pinkish-gray color, due to visible blood vessels beneath a semi-transparent skin, and the body is soft and flabby.

2. Size: Goblin Sharks can grow relatively large, with the largest individuals reaching over 4 meters (13 feet) in length, though most are smaller.

3. Jaw Mechanism: It has a highly protrusible jaw that can be extended to catch prey. Its jaws are lined with long, narrow teeth.

4. Habitat: This species inhabits deep waters, typically around submarine canyons and seamounts, at depths from about 300 to 900 meters (980 to 3,000 feet), but it has been found deeper.

5. Diet: The Goblin Shark feeds on a variety of deep-sea creatures, including fishes, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Its hunting strategy involves using its protrusible jaws to snap up prey that comes within range.

6. Reproduction: Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Goblin Shark, but it is believed to be ovoviviparous, like many other sharks.

7. Distribution: This shark has a wide but patchy distribution, having been found in deep waters off Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and other locations.

8. Conservation Status: Due to its deep-sea habitat and rarity, the Goblin Shark is not considered to be at high risk of human-caused threats. However, its population size and structure are not well understood.

The Goblin Shark's peculiar appearance and deep-sea lifestyle make it one of the most enigmatic and least understood shark species. Its presence in the depths of the ocean highlights the diversity and mystery of marine life in the deep sea.

Mitsukurina owstoni

19"x 10"

Largest tooth measures 1.26"