SharksSelachimorpha

Sharks (Selachimorpha) are cartilaginous fish characterised by streamlined, fusiform bodies. They possess five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head and distinct separate pectoral fins. Their skin is covered in placoid scales, also known as dermal denticles, which give it a rough texture. Most species exhibit countershading, with darker backs and lighter undersides. 🌊 Red Sea members of this group range in size from smaller reef sharks, typically 1 to 2.5 metres (3.3-8.2 ft) long, to large pelagic filter feeders like the Whale Shark, which can exceed 12 metres (39 ft).

Sharks inhabit diverse environments from shallow reef flats and lagoon bottoms to outer reef slopes and offshore pelagic waters, typically at depths from the surface to over 200 metres (650 ft). They are primarily apex predators, feeding on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans, though some species are planktivores. Many are solitary hunters, but some reef species aggregate, and several are active both day and night. Divers frequently encounter various reef species, while larger pelagic sharks are less common, often seen near drop-offs or in open water.