Fin's Fish Guide
The Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Somniosidae that grows up to 427 cm.
Description
The Greenland shark is a giant, slow-living deep-sea shark from the cold waters of the northern Atlantic and Arctic oceans. The species grows to about 430 cm and is among the longest-lived vertebrates in the world; specimens may reach hundreds of years old. It has a bulky, grey-brown body, small eyes and hunts slowly for fish, seals and carrion. Its flesh contains high concentrations of the toxin trimethylamine oxide; eaten fresh it causes poisoning ('shark drunkenness') and it may only be eaten after lengthy fermentation. The IUCN assesses the species as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Greenland shark?
The Greenland shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. One of the longest-living vertebrates; flesh poisonous unless fermented
Where does the Greenland shark live?
The Greenland shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean
How big does the Greenland shark get?
The Greenland shark grows to a maximum of about 427 cm.
Is the Greenland shark dangerous to humans?
The Greenland shark is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not eat the flesh fresh: it contains high concentrations of trimethylamine oxide and causes a poisoning with drunkenness-like symptoms. Only edible after lengthy fermentation. Seek medical help if symptoms follow consumption.
Is the Greenland shark edible?
The Greenland shark is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Somniosus
More from the family Somniosidae
Want the complete picture on the Greenland shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greenland shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.