Extremely rare fox shark jaw with a large eye

The bigeye thresher shark (Alopias superciliosus) is a lamniform shark belonging to the Alopiidae family. Both the common name and the scientific name refer to the tail fin (which reminded early observers of the species of the tail of a fox) and to the large eyes, which sit in orbits that allow them to rotate upward and are surmounted by distinctive grooves starting from the top of the head. It is one of the few modern shark species for which fossil remains have been found: specifically in Japan, in the Hokuriku region. And fossils found in the Mediterranean most likely belong to this species as well. This marine creature inhabits the tropical and temperate waters of all the oceans, including the Mediterranean Sea. Huge eyes, then, capable of turning upward to hunt in low-light conditions. A very long tail capable of reaching half of the animal's total length. On the head there are two deep grooves on the upper part of the head that start behind the eyes. Adults typically measure between 3.3 and 4 meters, with maximum peaks recorded near 4.9 meters. The back ranges from gray-purple to brown, while the belly is cream or whitish. Alopias superciliosus is an oceanic species that is both epipelagic and mesopelagic; it usually moves between the surface and 500 meters deep. It uses its extraordinary tail as a real whip to stun schools of fish and cephalopods on which it feeds. Reproduction is ovoviviparous with uterine cannibalism (oophagy), resulting in the birth of only 2–4 young at a time. Very beautiful lot, clean and well-preserved taxidermy, jaw of one of the rarest shark specimens. Display base not included. Happy bidding.

Stima:€200

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