How Do Cookie Cutter Sharks Emit Light?

The cookie cutter shark is a deep sea shark characterized by a round mouth and long body. It's also known as a luminous shark due to the green light emitted from the shark's belly.

Significance

According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, the green glow on the belly of the cookie cutter shark is caused by many tiny organs called photophores.

Function

Cookie cutter sharks emit light to attract prey. The glowing section of the cookie cutter shark appears to be a small fish which lures in larger fish. The shark then uses its round mouth to cut a plug of flesh out of the surprised larger fish before swimming away.

Size

The maximum length of a mature female cookie cutter shark is 22 inches, but a male may reach a maximum length of only 16.5 inches.

Types

The distinctive wounds left by the cookie cutter shark have been found on large sharks, dolphins, tuna, stingray, seals and whales.

Fun Fact

The light-producing photophores can continue to function for up to three hours after the cookie cutter shark's death.

References

• Florida Museum of Natural History