SharksSharks are a group of fish characterized by a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head, and pectoral fins that are not fused to the head. There are over 500 species of sharks that range in size from 6 feet in length to 40 feet in length. They are the top predators in the ocean and are have attacked humans in multiple cases.
RaysRays are distinguished by a flattened body, with the five gill openings and the mouth generally located on the underside. Rays are further distinguished by their greatly enlarged, winglike pectoral fins, which extend forward along the sides of the head above the gill openings. There are 534 different species of rays. The rays have a spine that con inflict a painful injury to the thing it touches. Rays flap their fins like a bird to move through the water.
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SkatesMore than 200 species have been discovered. Skates lay eggs to have babies which is a major difference between them and rays who carry the baby and give birth. Also skates lack a stinging spine associated with the tail. Skates make their fins ripple and create a wave to slide along the bottom of the ocean floor.
ChimaerasThey have elongated, soft bodies, with a bulky head and a single gill-opening. They can grow up to 4.9 feet in length. In many species, the snout is modified into an elongated sensory organ. There are approximately 50 species of Chimaera. Water is taken in through the nostrils instead of the gills unlike the other cartilaginous fish.
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