Sixgill Sharks Have a Single Dorsal Fin Positioned Far Back on the Body

Unlike most sharks, this giant carries only one dorsal fin set near its tail.

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Most modern shark species have two dorsal fins.

Sixgill sharks possess a single dorsal fin located far posterior on the body, a primitive anatomical trait distinguishing them from most modern sharks that have two dorsal fins.

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This configuration reflects their ancient lineage within the order Hexanchiformes and their adaptation to slow, energy-efficient cruising rather than high-speed pursuit.

Anatomical designs abandoned by faster surface predators persist in the abyss, where stability and endurance outweigh acceleration. Evolution in darkness follows different rules.

Source

Smithsonian Ocean Portal

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