Sphyrnidae – Hammerhead sharks

The Sphyrnidae family, commonly known as hammerhead sharks, is one of the most recognizable and intriguing groups of sharks in the ocean. Named for their unique hammer-shaped heads, called “cephalofoils,” these sharks stand out among other species for their distinctive appearance and fascinating behaviors. Hammerhead sharks can be found in warm waters around the globe, from coastal regions and continental shelves to island terrains.

The most striking feature of hammerhead sharks is undoubtedly their head. The wide, flat structure with eyes at each end provides these sharks with a 360-degree vision, enabling them to see above and below them at all times—a tremendous advantage for both hunting and avoiding predators. This unique head shape also aids in maneuverability, allowing them to make sharp turns and sudden moves to catch prey or navigate through complex environments like coral reefs.

There are ten known species of hammerhead sharks, ranging in size from the small bonnethead, to the massive great hammerhead, which can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) in length. Despite their fearsome reputation, most hammerhead species are relatively harmless to humans and are known for their shyness and ability to quickly flee when threatened.

Hammerhead sharks are skilled predators. Their diet mainly consists of fish, squid, octopus, and crustaceans. Some of the larger species, like the great hammerhead, also prey on smaller sharks, rays, and even stingrays, digging them out from the sandy ocean bottom with their wide heads. Their electroreceptive sensory organs, which are enhanced by their broad cephalofoils, allow them to detect the electrical fields emitted by potential prey, making it difficult for dinner to hide.