Sharks - Pathfinders

Front

Which is the largest of all sharks?

Back

Whale Shark

Answer explanation

The Whale Shark is the largest of all sharks, reaching lengths of up to 40 feet or more. In contrast, the Great White, Bull, and Tiger Sharks are significantly smaller, making the Whale Shark the correct answer.

Front

What is the smallest shark in the world?

Back

Dwarf Lantern Shark

Answer explanation

The Dwarf Lantern Shark is the smallest shark in the world, measuring only about 7 inches (18 cm) in length. Unlike the larger species listed, it is known for its small size and bioluminescent properties.

Front

What unusual thing can the bull shark do?

Back

Survive in Freshwater

Answer explanation

The bull shark is unique because it can survive in freshwater environments, unlike most sharks that require saltwater. This adaptability allows it to swim up rivers and inhabit various freshwater habitats.

Front

What organs do sharks use to breathe?

Back

Gills

Answer explanation

Sharks breathe using gills, which extract oxygen from water. Unlike lungs, gills are specialized organs that allow them to efficiently filter oxygen as water flows over them.

Front

What is the primary diet of a whale shark?

Back

Plankton

Answer explanation

The primary diet of a whale shark consists mainly of plankton. They are filter feeders, using their large mouths to consume tiny organisms, making plankton their main food source, unlike seals or small fish.

Front

How many teeth does a whale shark have?

Back

3,000

Answer explanation

Whale sharks have around 3,000 tiny teeth, which they use to filter feed on plankton. This makes 3,000 the correct answer, as they possess the highest number of teeth among all shark species.

Front

What are baby sharks called?

Back

Pups

Answer explanation

Baby sharks are commonly referred to as 'pups'. This term is widely accepted in marine biology, distinguishing them from other young animals like 'cubs' for bears or 'kittens' for cats.

Front

What are shark skeletons made of?

Back

Cartilage

Answer explanation

Shark skeletons are made of cartilage, which is a flexible tissue. Unlike bony fish, sharks belong to a group called chondrichthyans, whose skeletons are primarily composed of cartilage, making them lighter and more agile in water.

Front

After eating a seal or a sea lion, how long can a great white shark go without another big meal?

Back

A Month

Answer explanation

Great white sharks can go a month without eating after consuming a large meal like a seal or sea lion. This ability allows them to survive long periods without food, making 'A Month' the correct answer.

Front

How many teeth does a shark have in its lifetime?

Back

20,000 - 50,000

Answer explanation

Sharks can lose and replace thousands of teeth throughout their lives. On average, they can have between 20,000 to 50,000 teeth, making this the correct choice.