Sharks Sense Electricity explores the fascinating world of electroreception, a unique sensory ability that allows sharks to perceive the electrical fields emitted by other living organisms. This “sixth sense,” facilitated by specialized organs called ampullae of Lorenzini, plays a crucial role in their hunting strategies and overall survival within the marine ecosystem. The book delves into how sharks use this ability to detect prey hidden beneath the sand or in murky waters, providing them with a significant advantage in the predator-prey relationship.
The book examines the biological mechanisms behind electroreception, tracing the path of electrical signals from the ampullae to the brain, and explores its evolutionary origins. Readers will gain insights into how this sensory system has diversified across different shark species. Sharks Sense Electricity begins by establishing a foundation in marine biology and sensory ecology, then progresses through the neurobiology, evolutionary history, and ecological implications of electroreception, culminating in a discussion of its impact on shark conservation.
