Category: Fish
These mighty predators can be found in the coastal waters of all major oceans, open ocean, as well as on long oceanic migrations and trips into very deep water. Mature individuals can reach over 20 feet in length and weigh over 7000 pounds! Their lifespan is estimated to be around 70 years. One of the densest great white populations is around Dyer Island, South Africa, where most great white shark research is conducted. The great white is one of only a few species of shark that will raise its head above water level to look at objects such as prey.
The fish that could drown (and other amazing tales)
Fish are masters of aquatic living, though some manage to do pretty well on land, too! Of living species, the mudskipper is probably the best adapted to life out of water - in fact, a mudskipper will drown if it can’t periodically come to the surface! This unusual fish uses its powerful, almost leg-like fins to walk on land and can even use them to “skip” up to 2 feet in the air! Similar to many amphibians, the mudskipper is able to breathe through its skin and the linings of its mouth and throat. It also seals water in its gill chambers when it leaves the water for extended stays on the land, much like a scuba diver brings air with them!-
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
