Squali is a term used to refer to a category or group of marine organisms that encompass various types of sharks. Derived from the Italian word for "sharks", this term is commonly employed in the field of marine biology and zoology.
Sharks, as a part of the squali group, are cartilaginous fish characterized by their streamlined bodies, multiple rows of teeth, and highly developed sensory systems. They are found in oceans and seas worldwide, occupying various habitats such as coastal regions, deep waters, and even freshwater environments. With their unique features and adaptations, squali have evolved to become efficient predators, displaying an exceptional diversity in size, shape, and behavior.
Squali are equipped with a keen sense of smell and specialized electroreceptors, known as Ampullae of Lorenzini, which enable them to detect the presence of prey even from great distances. Their incredible ability to detect electromagnetic fields allows them to navigate through the vast expanses of the ocean and identify potential food sources. In terms of reproduction, squali typically exhibit internal fertilization and give birth to live young, contrasting with most bony fish that lay eggs.
Despite their reputation as fearsome predators, squali play crucial roles within their ecosystems, regulating populations of other marine organisms and maintaining the overall health of marine food webs. However, certain shark species have experienced significant declines due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and other human activities, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable creatures and ensure their continued survival.
