Sphyrnidae

Sphyrnidae is a family of sharks belonging to the order Carcharhiniformes, commonly known as hammerhead sharks. The most distinctive feature of these sharks is their flattened, hammer-shaped head, called a cephalofoil. This unique structure is believed to aid in sensory perception, possibly by spreading out the eyes and nostrils, allowing for a wider field of vision and improved electroreception. The family contains two genera, Sphyrna and Eusphyrna, with nine recognized species.

Hammerhead sharks are found in warm temperate and tropical waters worldwide. They inhabit both coastal and oceanic environments, ranging from shallow reefs to the open ocean. Their diet varies by species but generally includes fish, squid, crustaceans, and sometimes other sharks. Despite their formidable appearance, most hammerhead species are not considered dangerous to humans, though larger species can be aggressive if provoked or mistaken for prey.

Reproduction in Sphyrnidae is viviparous, meaning the young develop inside the mother and are born live. Litter sizes can be quite large, with some species giving birth to dozens of pups. Hammerhead sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems as apex or mesopredators. However, many species are currently listed as endangered or critically endangered due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and finning for the shark fin soup trade. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these distinctive and ecologically significant sharks.