Unusual shark species you didn’t know existed

When we think of sharks, we often imagine the iconic great white. But the ocean is home to more than 500 shark species, many of them strange, ancient looking, and surprisingly little-known. From glowing skin to eel-like bodies, these unusual sharks prove that the deep sea is full of surprises. (unsplash)

Frilled Shark: Resembling an ancient sea serpent, the frilled shark has an eel like body and 300 needle like teeth. It’s believed to have changed very little over millions of years. (unsplash)

Cookiecutter shark: Small but fierce, this deep sea shark bites perfectly round chunks out of larger animals, including whales and even submarines, using its circular, saw like teeth. (wikimedia commons)

Goblin shark: Often called a “living fossil,” this deep sea shark has a long, flattened snout and a jaw that shoots forward to catch prey. Its pinkish skin and protruding teeth give it a truly otherworldly look. (unsplash)

Megamouth Shark: Discovered only in 1976, this rare shark feeds on plankton like a whale shark. It has a massive, soft body and a huge mouth that glows faintly to attract prey. (wikimedia commons)

Greenland shark: One of the longest living vertebrates on Earth, this slow moving Arctic shark can live for over 250 years. It inhabits icy, deep waters and remains one of the ocean’s great mysteries. (unsplash)

Wobbegong: These “carpet sharks” have flattened bodies and intricate patterns that camouflage them perfectly against the ocean floor. They even have skin flaps around their mouths to help lure prey. (unsplash)