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MEGAMOUTH SHARK

8th December, 2023

MEGAMOUTH SHARK

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Context

  • Recently, a pregnant Megamouth Shark, a was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines.

Details

  • The megamouth shark (Megachasma pelagios) is a species of deepwater shark.
  • It measures around 17 ft long and is the smallest of the three extant filter-feeding sharks alongside the relatively larger whale shark and basking shark. Filter Feeding means: they sift out small plankton (like krill) from the water.
  • Like the other two planktivorous sharks, it swims with its mouth wide open, filtering water for plankton and jellyfish.
  • It is recognizable from its large head with rubbery lips.
  • A relatively poor swimmer, the megamouth has a soft, flabby body and lacks caudal keels.
  • Reproduction is ovoviviparous, meaning that the young sharks develop in eggs that remain within the mother's body until they hatch.
  • Megamouth sharks are considered to be a species of "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements with reference to Megamouth Shark:

1.    It is an excellent swimmer.

2.    It is a listed as Critically Endangered species on the IUCN Red List.

3.     It is a filter-feeding shark.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 3 only

D) All

Answer A) 1 and 2 only