Lamnidae

The Lamnidae family consists of mackerel sharks, commonly known as white sharks. These sharks are large, fast-swimming predators found in oceans around the world, although they tend to prefer colder water environments. The family name is derived from the Greek word “lamna,” which means “fish of prey,” and is associated with the legendary creature, the Lamia.

Lamnidae sharks have pointed snouts, spindle-shaped bodies, and large gill openings. The first dorsal fin is large, high, stiff, and can be angular or somewhat rounded, while the second dorsal and anal fins are relatively small. The caudal peduncle features a couple of less distinct keels. Their teeth are massive, and the fifth gill opening is located in front of the pectoral fin, with spiracles occasionally absent. These sharks are robust and heavily built, often weighing nearly twice as much as other sharks of similar length from different families. While many species in this family are among the fastest-swimming fish, the great white shark is slower due to its larger size.