Hammerhead Shark and Similar Species
Sphyrna
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Hammerhead Shark. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Great Hammerhead
Sphyrna mokarran
Key differences: Largest hammerhead species (up to 6.1 m). Cephalofoil has a nearly straight anterior margin with a slight median indentation. First dorsal fin is very tall and strongly falcate. Pelvic fins are not falcate.
Scalloped Hammerhead
Sphyrna lewini
Key differences: Medium to large size (up to 4.3 m). Cephalofoil has a distinct median indentation and several 'scallops' along the anterior margin. First dorsal fin is moderately tall and falcate. Pelvic fins are not falcate.
Smooth Hammerhead
Sphyrna zygaena
Key differences: Medium to large size (up to 4 m). Cephalofoil has a smoothly arched anterior margin without a median indentation. First dorsal fin is moderately tall and falcate. Pelvic fins are not falcate.
Bonnethead Shark
Sphyrna tiburo
Key differences: Smallest hammerhead species (up to 1.5 m). Cephalofoil is shovel-shaped or bonnet-shaped, much narrower than other hammerheads. First dorsal fin is relatively small.
Winghead Shark
Eusphyra blochii
Key differences: Distinct genus, but often confused due to hammer-like head. Has an extremely elongated and narrow cephalofoil, much wider than the body length, giving it a 'wing-like' appearance. Found only in the Indo-West Pacific.
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