Named for its smooth denticle hide, the Silky Shark is a requiem shark, related to the Blacktip Reef Shark, Bull Shark, Gray Reef Shark, and Oceanic Whitetip.
Safari Ltd. Silky Shark measures: 5.5" L x 2" W
Named for its smooth skin, the Silky Shark is a requiem shark, related to the Blacktip Reef Shark, Bull Shark, Gray Reef Shark, and Oceanic Whitetip.
Scientific Name: Carcharhinus falciformis
Characteristics: This detailed Silky Shark toy shark figure highlights the streamlined body of this shark, with a pointed nose and slender build.
Size: This shark toy figurine measures approximately 5 1/2 inches in length, about the length of a pen or marker.
The silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) is a species of requiem shark, belonging to the family Carcharhinidae. Here are some key points about the silky shark:
Physical Description: Silky sharks are named for their smooth, silky skin texture. They have a streamlined body with a long, pointed snout and large eyes. Their coloration ranges from bronze to dark gray, with a white underside.
Size: Adult silky sharks typically measure between 8 and 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) in length, although they can grow larger, reaching up to 11.5 feet (3.5 meters).
Habitat: These sharks are found in tropical and warm temperate waters around the world, preferring offshore areas over continental shelves. They are commonly encountered in the open ocean near islands, reefs, and seamounts.
Behavior: Silky sharks are highly migratory and often travel long distances, sometimes crossing entire ocean basins. They are known for forming large schools, particularly around seamounts and other underwater features.
Diet: They are opportunistic predators, feeding primarily on bony fishes, squid, and occasionally on small sharks and rays.
Reproduction: Like many shark species, silky sharks are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. Females typically have a gestation period of around 12 months, and they give birth to litters of 1 to 14 pups.
Conservation Status: Silky sharks are currently listed as "Near Threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They face threats from overfishing, particularly due to demand for their fins in the shark fin trade. They are also caught incidentally in various fisheries targeting tuna and other pelagic species.
Role in Ecosystem: As predators, silky sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. They help regulate prey populations and contribute to overall biodiversity.
3+ years
Small Parts. Not for children under 3 years.
