Cetorhinus maximus

Cetorhinus maximus (Gunnerus, 1765) is a species of chondrichthyes belonging to the family Cetorhinidae (order Lamniformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the basking shark.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Cetorhinus maximus (Gunnerus, 1765) places this species within the chondrichthyes lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Lamniformes, Cetorhinus maximus exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: a chondrichthyes fish Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Cetorhinidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Cetorhinidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.