Question #149748. Asked by
psnz.
Last updated Sep 04 2023.
Originally posted Sep 03 2023 7:03 PM.
Some sharks can be placed in a tonic state.[1] The shark remains in this state of paralysis for an average of fifteen minutes before it recovers. Scientists have exploited this phenomenon to study shark behaviour.
Some sharks go into tonic immobility when they are turned upside down. With tiger sharks (measuring 3–4 metres, or 10–15 feet, in length), tonic immobility may be achieved by placing hands lightly on the sides of the animal's snout in the area surrounding its eyes. Scientists believe that tonic immobility in sharks may be related to mating, because female sharks seem more responsive than males.[2] During tonic immobility, the dorsal fin(s) straighten, and both breathing and muscle contractions become more steady and relaxed.
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