Sharks have 5-7 pairs of gill slits located on the sides of their heads. Unlike bony fish, they do not have gill covers. Water must continually flow across these slits in order for the shark to breathe.
Some sharks have spiracles, which are special gill slits located just behind the eyes.
They supply oxygen directly to the eyes and brain of the shark. Bottom dwelling sharks like the angelsharks use this extra respiratory organ to breathe while at rest on the sea floor. It is also used for respiration when the shark's mouth is used for eating. As stated in our privacy policy , we fully respect your privacy and will not use your e-mail address for any purpose other than the newsletter subscription. Airline Ticket Cars Computers Furniture Mortgage Music Shopping Stocks Travel Search the Web with GoTo - Type one or more words, then click on the arrow or type Enter.