Cetorhinus
Cetorhinus is a genus of cartilaginous fishes in the family Cetorhinidae, within the order Lamniformes. The genus is represented today by a single living species, Cetorhinus maximus, commonly known as the basking shark. The genus also appears in the fossil record, with several extinct species described from various geological periods.
The basking shark has a broad, flattened head, a long, slender body, and a very large mouth
Distribution and habitat span temperate and subpolar oceans worldwide. Basking sharks are most often observed near
Ecology and behavior include slow, deliberate swimming as they filter-feed. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with females giving
Conservation status: the basking shark is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Historical overexploitation for oil,