Salmon Shark
The salmon shark (*Lamna ditropis*) is a species of mackerel shark in the North Pacific Ocean.
The salmon shark (Lamna ditropis) is a species of mackerel shark in the North Pacific Ocean. It is an opportunistic predator known for feeding on Pacific salmon, but it also eats other fishes, squid, and birds. The species is found in coastal and open-ocean waters and is assessed as Least Concern.
Description
The salmon shark is a large, fast-swimming shark in the family Lamnidae. It has a dark upper body and lighter underside, and it is closely related to other mackerel sharks such as the porbeagle.
Distribution and habitat
This species lives throughout the North Pacific Ocean, including coastal waters and the open ocean. Sources describe it as occurring in epipelagic and offshore waters, with a range that includes areas near Japan and North America.
Diet and behaviour
Although named for salmon, the species has a broad diet and feeds on a variety of prey. It is a migratory predator and is described as an opportunistic feeder.
Conservation status
The salmon shark is assessed as Least Concern. Available information cited by Alaska fisheries authorities indicates populations in the northeast and northwest Pacific are currently considered stable.
Key facts
- The salmon shark is a mackerel shark species native to the North Pacific Ocean.
- Its common name comes from Pacific salmon, one of its important prey items.
- It is an opportunistic feeder rather than a salmon specialist.
- The species occurs in both coastal and open-ocean habitats.
- It is listed as Least Concern and is considered stable in parts of its range.
Salmon sharks occur in the North Pacific and are relevant to Canadian waters on the Pacific coast, especially around British Columbia.
Frequently asked questions
What is a salmon shark?
Why is it called a salmon shark?
What do salmon sharks eat?
Where do salmon sharks live?
Is the salmon shark endangered?
References
- Florida Museum of Natural History — https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-fish/species-profiles/salmon-shark/Supports: Common name origin, diet, and habitat
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/salmon-sharkSupports: Scientific name, family, and North Pacific distribution
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game — https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=salmonshark.mainSupports: Conservation status and population stability in the North Pacific
- Oregon Sea Grant — https://www.seagrant.oregonstate.edu/visitor-center/sharks-oregon/salmonSupports: Size, habitat, and diet summary
- Animal Diversity Web — https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Lamna_ditropis/Supports: Distribution across the subarctic and temperate North Pacific