What specific adaptation do zebra sharks possess to process hard-shelled prey like snails and clams?
Answer
Strong, flat teeth capable of crushing the shells.
Given that a significant portion of the zebra shark's diet consists of mollusks encased in durable shells, such as snails and clams, they have developed specialized dentition for processing this tough food. Instead of relying on teeth designed for slicing flesh, they are equipped with strong, flat teeth. These teeth function like natural pavers, providing the crushing force necessary to break open the hard exterior shells. Once the protective shell is fractured or breached, the shark can then utilize its suction mechanism to ingest the soft internal meat, completing the processing of hard-shelled fauna.
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