Basking Shark
Scientific Name - Cetorhinus maximus
The Basking Shark is a gigantic shark, growing up to 33ft - it is second only to the Whale Shark. The Basking Shark has an enormous mouth and is a lazy swimmer. Huge gills and a short conical snout make the Basking Shark unmistakable.
Scientific Classification
- Order: Lamniformes
- Family: Cetorhinidae
- Genus: Cetorhinus
- Species: C. maximus
- Scientific Name: Cetorhinus maximus
Life Expectancy
73
Dangerous to Man?
No
Conservation Status
Vulnerable
Size
Typical maximum size of 6-8 metres.
Reproduction
The female gives birth to a litter of around six pups.
Diet
A passive filter feeder, the Basking Shark eaths small fish, invertebrates and zoo plankton. The Basking Shark can filter around 1800 tons of water per hour.
Other Names
sunfish, bone shark, elephant shark,sailfish shark, big mouth shark
Speed
Top speed of 4mph
Weight
Up to 16 tons
Population
Unknown
Basking Shark Photos
Tip: There are some great shark plush of your favourite species in the shark shop!
Basking Shark Videos
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