The electrosensorial pore system of the cephalofoil in the four most common species of hammerhead shark (Elasmobranchii: Sphyrnidae) from the Southwestern Atlantic

Abstract

The laterally expanded head is the principal character distinguishing hammerhead sharks, and its morphology is important for interpreting their ontogeny and species diversity. Because their head shape changes during its ontogeny, it is vital to evaluate it in order to establish other taxonomical characteristics to correctly identify Sphyrna species. This study examines the distribution of electrosensorial pore regions on the ventral surface of the cephalofoil (VSC) in Sphyrna lewini, S. tiburo, S. tudes and S. zygaena from the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. The pore distribution patterns in the VSC can distinguish these species. Use of those patterns, with the head shape, confirms the identification of the four most common species of hammerhead sharks in the Southwestern Atlantic. To cite this article: W. Mello, C. R. Biologies 332 (2009).