Quasi-Snake Locomotion Lets the Frilled Shark Strike in Total Darkness

This shark coils and lunges like a serpent in pitch black water.

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Its scientific name, Chlamydoselachus anguineus, references its snake-like appearance.

The frilled shark’s elongated, flexible body enables undulating movements resembling those of a snake. This locomotion supports sudden forward lunges during ambush attacks in the lightless bathyal zone.

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In darkness deeper than 500 meters, visual targeting is limited. A coiled body can generate a rapid forward thrust, extending reach without prolonged pursuit.

Such mechanics blur the line between fish and reptilian hunting styles. Evolution in the abyss has produced a shark that abandons the classic torpedo sprint in favor of serpentine acceleration.

Source

Encyclopaedia Britannica

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