Hammasts

Hammasts, short for hammerheads, are a group of sharks characterized by their distinctive, flattened head and large, hammer-shaped snout. This unique morphology is an adaptation that allows them to sense the electrical fields generated by the muscle contractions of their prey, aiding in their hunting strategy. Hammasts are found in both freshwater and marine environments, with species ranging from the freshwater hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) to the great hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran), which can grow up to 14 feet in length.

The hammerhead shark's head is flattened and broad, with a large, rounded snout that tapers to a point. This structure houses the ampullae of Lorenzini, sensory organs that detect the electromagnetic fields produced by the movement of muscle tissue. This ability is particularly useful in murky waters, where visual cues are limited. The hammerhead's diet primarily consists of bony fish, with some species also preying on crustaceans and cephalopods.

Hammasts are known for their powerful jaws and sharp teeth, which they use to crush the bones of their prey. They are generally solitary animals, except during the breeding season, when males may aggregate around females. Hammerhead sharks are considered vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction, and many species are protected by international conservation efforts. Their unique adaptations and ecological roles make them an important subject of study in marine biology.