Greenland shark
Somniosus microcephalus
Somniosus microcephalus is a large, slow-moving shark of cold northern waters.
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About this species
Species identity
Somniosus microcephalus is a large, slow-moving shark of cold northern waters. It is a top predator and scavenger that feeds on fish and other large prey in deep subpolar and Arctic environments.
Where it lives
Greenland sharks are found in the North Atlantic and Arctic, especially in cold deep waters. They can occur in Norwegian Current-connected basins where deep, cool water supports large northern predators.
Role in the ecosystem
Greenland shark helps explain how marine food webs function through its ecological role, habitat use, and connection to broader ecosystem change.
Scientific reference
Citation
Ocean Literacy Connections
This resource can be explored through Ocean biodiversity.
- How do ocean habitats support so many forms of life and interaction?
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Open the tertiary consumer view and compare this species with related marine life.







