Sharks
Sharks (Carcharhinidae, Rhincodontidae, Sphyrnidae) Overview
Sharks are known to have a fantastic sense of smell. They can detect blood in the water from as far as a quarter mile away. They can also sense low frequency vibrations, for example of a wounded animal, a mile away.
Their skins are rough like sandpaper and they generally have a full set of fins – caudal, anal, pectoral, pelvic and dorsal. Their mouths are on the underside and they have five to seven exposed gill slits on each side.
Shark's teeth are constantly being replaced about once a month. New teeth grow on the inside edge of the jaw and then move outward, replacing the teeth that have done their job and are used up. All sharks are carnivores.
There are 36 species of sharks in Hawaiian waters, but most of them live away from the shorelines and in deeper waters. The seven most likely to be seen near the shorelines are the gray reef shark, Galapagos shark, blacktip reef shark, whitetip reef shark, whale shark, hammerhead shark and tiger shark (responsible for most Hawaii shark attacks). The Hawaiian name for shark is mano.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sharks commonly seen near the beaches in Hawaii?
Most shark species in Hawaii prefer deep offshore waters, but some - like blacktip, whitetip, and tiger sharks - can occasionally be seen near shorelines, especially in deeper channels and reef edges.
What is the most dangerous shark in Hawaii?
The tiger shark is responsible for the majority of shark-related incidents in Hawaiian waters. While encounters are rare, caution is advised when swimming in murky waters or near river mouths.
How good is a shark's sense of smell?
Sharks have an exceptional sense of smell and can detect a single drop of blood in vast amounts of ocean water from up to a quarter mile away.
Do sharks continuously grow new teeth?
Yes, sharks shed and regrow teeth continuously throughout their lives. A new tooth can replace an old one approximately every month.
What is the Hawaiian word for shark?
The Hawaiian word for shark is mano. Sharks hold significant meaning in Hawaiian culture and mythology, often considered protectors or 'aumakua (ancestral guardians).