THE FINS UNITED INITIATIVE
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shark body type

sharks come in all colors, shapes, and sizes! join tfui as we tell you why...

​When people think of "sharks" most think of a species like great white sharks- these sharks have streamlined, torpedo shape body. This shape is known as a "fusiform body" - elongated, rounded, and tapers at both sides. This body shape allows them to swim fast -- that means little drag against water, and using little energy, too! These fast-swimming predators (like the great white, mako, tiger, and the hammerhead) have tails that about the same size on both lobes (see our section on fins here).

Opposite of those fusiform bodies are those of the bottom dwelling sharks. Have you ever noticed how these sharks have flattened bodies that let them hide? Bingo, that's exactly what they want! However, as you can imagine this shape isn't for a fast-swimming shark. These slower-swimming species are better equipped to surprise their prey than swim after it.

some of the many shark shapes

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  • About TFUI
    • TFUI Origins >
      • About TFUI Founder Melissa
      • TFUI Officers
    • Take a Bite
    • Get Involved
    • FAQ
  • Bite Blog
  • Education
    • The Sharks >
      • Shark Anatomy
    • The Skates & Rays
    • The Chimaeras
    • Why Environments Matter
    • The Threats
    • Open Access >
      • Behind the Fins: Interview series
      • Bite into Research
      • Shark Bites: Book Recommendations
      • Sustainable Seafood Apps
  • Fins United
    • Shark Party Ideas
    • Little Fins Nursery
    • Big Fins Reef
  • Contact