The dwarf lanternshark (Etmopterus perryi) is officially recognized as the world’s smallest known shark species. This miniature deep-sea predator is so tiny that it can easily fit right inside a human hand.
Here are five fascinating facts about this incredible micro-shark: 1. It is Shorter than a Pencil
The absolute maximum length this shark can reach is just 20 centimetres (8 inches). Fully mature males are even smaller. They often measure a tiny 16 centimetres (6.3 inches).
This makes them smaller than a standard No. 2 writing pencil. 2. It Glows in the Dark The shark lives in complete pitch-black ocean depths.
It produces its own light using special organs called photophores. This biological phenomenon is known as bioluminescence.
The glowing belly helps it blend with faint sunlight from above.
This light camouflages it from bigger predators swimming below. 3. It Has Oversized Eyes Its head features distinctively large, bulbous eyes. The large size maximizes light collection in dark waters. This helps the shark spot tiny prey like shrimp. It also allows it to navigate its murky deep-sea habitat. 4. It Lives in a Highly Specific Region This species is exceptionally rare and localized. It is only found off the coasts of Colombia and Venezuela. It thrives along the upper continental ocean slopes. It stays at extreme depths between 283 and 439 metres. 5. It Gives Birth to Micro-Pups Unlike many fish, it does not lay eggs. It is an aplacental viviparous species. This means the mother gives birth to live young. A typical litter size is only two or three pups at a time. Each newborn pup measures just a few centimetres long.
Watch this short video overview to learn more about how the dwarf lanternshark compares to other tiny deep-sea sharks: The World’s Smallest Sharks Ben G Thomas YouTube · 3 Aug 2019 If you want, I can provide more details on: How its bioluminescence works to trick its prey Other tiny contenders like the spined pygmy shark The unique dietary habits of deep-sea dwarf sharks Let me know what you would like to explore next! Learn our top 10 facts about sharks – WWF
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