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Cookie Cutter

Preview A cookie cutter shark specimen
(Smithsonian Institution)

This cookie-cutter shark (Isistius brasilienses) has a unique bite mark that they leave behind on their prey. Using their razor-sharp bottom teeth and powerful suction lips, the shark latches onto its prey and slices out a circular chunk of skin. The neat, cookie-shaped round scars left behind are seen on marine mammals, other shark species, and large fish that get bitten by this small, but fierce predator.

Tags: Sharks