Stay Curious

SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER AND UNLOCK ONE MORE ARTICLE FOR FREE.

Sign Up

VIEW OUR Privacy Policy


Discover Magazine Logo

WANT MORE? KEEP READING FOR AS LOW AS $1.99!

Subscribe

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

FIND MY SUBSCRIPTION
Advertisement

In Stereo: Hammerhead Sharks Have Human-Like Vision

Discover how hammerhead shark vision, with its unique binocular capabilities, enhances their hunting skills in the ocean.

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news

Sign Up

Sharks and humans seem more and more alike with each new scientific find. Not only do some sharks have hunting patterns that resemble those of serial killers, but now scientists have discovered that the hammerhead shark's distinctive head shape allows it to see like a human.

Binocular vision occurs when the fields of two eyes overlap, allowing the accurate perception of depth and distance. It is especially important for predators which need to judge the distance to their prey [BBC News].

Researcher

Stephen Kajiura, a sensory biologist, suggests that the stereo vision helps the sharks hunt prey like squid that dart around in three dimensions. The wide set eyes also allow the sharks to see through 360 degrees of vision, according to the researchers, who published their findings in TheJournal of Experimental Biology. Scientists have debated the significance of the hammerheads' odd shape for centuries, according to lead researcher Michelle ...

Stay Curious

JoinOur List

Sign up for our weekly science updates

View our Privacy Policy

SubscribeTo The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Subscribe
Advertisement

0 Free Articles