basking shark

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The reality of basking sharks

October 17th 2010 00:52

Basking is usually thought of as exposing yourself to pleasant warmth, usually the sun. So, I didn't think it was much of a stretch to figure basking sharks are the usual, run of the mill sharks, swimming near the surface, catching some rays.

I was 100% WRONG!

Basking sharks are some of the largest creatures in the ocean, easily reaching 6-8 meters or well over 20 feet. Some species can reach over 30 feet but, this is fairly rare because of over harvesting and slow gestation. They are usually grayish-brown in with hundreds of teeth which are of little use because basking sharks, despite their size, are of little threat to man or other fish. This behemoth is a filter feeder. It swims along, mouth open, and feeds on plankton and small invertebrates which pass over its gills and are filtered from the water. The basking shark's most prominent feature is probably its long gill slits which almost encircle its head and snout.

No, it's not a sock puppet!

Although Basking Sharks are often sighted close to land during warm months, they are highly migratory and practically disappear during the fall and winter; when they may be hibernating in deep water although this theory is still up for dispute by those in the know.

Since these giants can school together, they were often mistaken for "sea monsters" be early observers.

Here are a few pictures which may shed light on these gentle giants...

Remember to take the hooks outta yer pocket before ya sit down!

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Posted By: James Rickard - Category: sharks

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Comments

2 Comments. [ Add A Comment ]

Comment by katyzzz

October 18th 2010 00:46

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MS Paint Art

Wow, I'm glad I'm not small and certainly, unlike some I know, not an invertebrate.

I think I'd still get out of the water, quick smart, if ever I should see one.

Interesting stuff, James