Known for a diverse nature and wildlife on land as well as underwater, the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador have proved to be the best destination for travelers passionate about nature. This is what makes Galapagos a unique living world, equally charming for of different age groups.
The endemic animals found around the islands are among those species that may not be found elsewhere in the world. It is the presence of such species that makes the trip even more exciting. Many of these species have also been named after the place they are found in.
Marine life found here is perhaps one of the most intriguing, and the unique Galapagos Sharks are no exception, they are like no other in the world. There are many interesting facts about these sharks, you will love to go through the following details that we came across.
1. The Galapagos Sharks are similar to the Gray Reefed Shark, but has a rounded head and a thick body towards its tail.
2. These sharks are found in the most isolated places of the world. Thus, they are found quite close to the Galapagos Islands. They are found in large numbers close to the Darwin and the Wolf Islands.
3. The Galapagos sharks can grow up to a length of about 3 meters i.e. about 10 to 12 feet long. Their little ones are found to be about 20 to 32 inches long.
4. These sharks are known to be the fastest moving hunters and eat boney fishes, octopuses and fishes that live at the bottom of the sea.
5. The Galapagos sharks are usually found in the clear waters, coral reefs or rocked sea beds. They live in waters that may be as deep as 20m or 80m. However, the younger generation prefers staying in the shallow waters as this is considered to be their nursery ground where they are yet under training.
6. Sharks are commonly thought to be harmful to humans. But, the Galapagos Sharks do not harm humans unless they are troubled or disturbed.
7. These are not aggressive like the other sharks. They usually swim in groups.
8. The Galapagos sharks have 14 tooth rows present on both sides of the jaws. The teeth present on the upper jaw are larger and triangular shaped while those present on the lower jaw are narrower.
9. The Galapagos Sharks usually take a long time to grow and thus do not reproduce very often. With a lower rate of reproduction, these sharks are now being counted among the endangered species in the world.
10. It is found that the male Galapagos sharks mature at the age of 6 years and the females mature at the age of 7 or nine years. But, however, none of them are found to get sexually mature until the age of 10 years.
11. The Galapagos sharks can be as friendly and safe like any other creature on the Galapagos Island. But, they can surely harm you if you do not follow a few safety norms that will keep you out of danger. You don’t have to tease them with food or chase them away. This will annoy them and they in return will come back to attack you.
12. The sign of a Galapagos shark getting ready to catch its prey is when it has a hunched back and moves forward in a pattern that forms an eight. If you find a shark doing this, you need to be aware and move away from there.
These facts about the Galapagos sharks create even more curiosity among the tourists. Tourists taking up a Galapagos Island Tour usually want to experience the animals on land and in water in their most natural forms. Nature Galapagos and Ecuador ensures that every individual gets an opportunity to take a deeper look into the natural life and habitat of these animals.
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