Lamna

Lamna is a genus of mackerel sharks that includes the common thresher shark, the porbeagle shark, and the salmon shark. They are known for their streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and large, pointed teeth. Lamna sharks are found in temperate and cold waters around the world, typically near coastlines and in open oceans.

Porbeagle – Lamna nasus

Salmon shark – Lamna ditropis

Common Names

Common names for Lamna sharks include:

  • Thresher sharks
  • Porbeagle sharks
  • Salmon sharks

Characteristics

Lamna sharks share several distinctive characteristics:

  • Streamlined bodies: Their bodies are fusiform, meaning they are torpedo-shaped, which helps them move through water efficiently.
  • Large, pointed teeth: Their teeth are designed for catching and tearing prey, primarily fish and other sharks.
  • Powerful tails: Their tails are long and powerful, providing the thrust necessary for fast swimming.
  • Two dorsal fins: They have two dorsal fins, the first of which is relatively large.
  • Single anal fin: They have a single anal fin located behind the pelvic fins.
  • Large eyes: Their eyes are large and adapted for seeing in low-light conditions.

Environments

Lamna sharks inhabit temperate and cold waters, typically found in the following environments:

  • Coastal waters: They are often found near coastlines, especially along continental shelves.
  • Open ocean: They can also be found in open ocean areas, including offshore waters and the deep sea.
  • Pelagic zone: They are primarily pelagic, meaning they live in the open water column.

References

For more information on Lamna sharks, consult the following resources: