How does the wolf eel's specialized dentition differ from a shark’s teeth?

It is built for crushing and pulverizing hard structures.

The specialized oral anatomy of the wolf eel is characterized by robust jaws and thick, blunt teeth. The primary function of this dentition is fundamentally different from that of many other predatory fish, such as sharks. Shark teeth are typically designed for slicing, tearing, and gripping flesh during pursuit and attack sequences. In contrast, the wolf eel's dental architecture is specifically engineered for generating immense pressure necessary to crack open and shatter the hard shells of crabs, the shells of clams, and the spines and structures of sea urchins. This focus on crushing power is central to unlocking their staple food sources.