Oophagy, or ovophagy, is the practice of embryos feeding on eggs produced by the ovary while still in the mother’s uterus. The term comes from the Greek words for “egg” (ōion) and “to eat” (phāgein).
Oophagy is believed to occur in all sharks of the order Lamniformes. This behavior may result in larger embryos or prepare them for a predatory lifestyle.
