When we think of sharks, the great white shark is probably the first that comes to mind. However, exists a less known, but equally fascinating species, capable of challenging creatures much larger than itself: we are talking about the clipper shark (Isistius brasiliensis).
The clipper shark owes its common name to the shape of the bites it leaves on its prey. With its lower teeth, which are much more developed than the upper ones, this small shark is able to remove cylinders of flesh from large fish, marine mammals and even… submarines! Yes, you read that right: the clipper shark is known to even attack the rubber coverings of submarine sonars, leaving its characteristic circular marks.
Where does the clipper shark live?
This small predator is widespread in tropical and temperate ocean waters, but its presence is often difficult to detect due to its habits. The clipper shark in fact carries out vertical migrations during the day, spending time in depth (even over 1000 metres) during the daytime, and then rising close to the surface during the night. This strategy allows it to hunt small prey such as lanternfish and squid, but also to attack larger creatures, such as cetaceans.
The bite technique and bioluminescence
One of the most striking features of the clipper shark is its ability to exploit bioluminescence. This shark is equipped with photophoressmall organs capable of emitting light, which allow it to blend in with the ambient light, breaking its own silhouette and hiding from predators or approaching its prey by surprise. Not only is it hidden, however: the dark band around the gills, which it does not produce lightserves as bait for its victims. This trick tricks large fish and marine mammals, making them unconsciously approach the predator.
When the prey is close enough, the clipper shark uses its particular teeth to latch onto the skin of the prey victim and, rotating on itself, detaches a circular portion of meat, then quickly moves away.
A unique and widespread predator
Despite its small size (male specimens reach a maximum of 56 cm in length), the clipper shark is capable of attacking a wide range of species. Bony fish, such as yellowfin tuna, swordfish and marlin, are often victims of his bites, as are cetaceans (including sperm whales, dolphins and whales), pinnipeds and even others sharkslike the white shark. The ability to inflict damage on such massive creatures has made this small shark an intriguing figure in the scientific community.
A curious fact concerns the behavior of the clipper shark towards inanimate objects. This species has been documented to attempt to bite Also submarine cables and submarine sonars, exchanging them probably for natural prey. This particular habit has been observed on several occasions, with visible damage on the rubber coating surfaces of the sonars, demonstrating the audacity of this small predator.
Despite his behavior aggressive towards many marine species, the clipper shark does not represent a significant threat to humans. Rare cases of attacks on swimmers in the open ocean have been reported, including one confirmed case in 2017 Australiabut this shark is generally not considered a danger to swimmers.
Due to the difficulty in studying it, the distribution of the clipper shark is not precisely known, although it is assumed that it is widely distributed in different areas of the tropical and temperate oceans. Luckilyits population does not appear to be at risk of extinction, and the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) it classification as a species of least concern. However, like many other sharks, it can accidentally end up in fishing nets during commercial fishing operations.
The clipper shark is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating creatures and bizarre of the marine kingdom. With its combination of bioluminescence, attack abilities and unique adaptations, it represents a predator formidable despite its reductions dimensions.
If you want to learn more about the marine world and the most surprising animals on the planet, continue following our articles to discover the most mysterious side of the oceans.
#clipper #shark #fascinating #feared #predator