Shark vs. Dolphin: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 27, 2023
Sharks are cartilaginous fish, while dolphins are marine mammals.
Key Differences
Sharks belong to the Chondrichthyes class, meaning they have skeletons made of cartilage. Dolphins, on the other hand, are mammals, classified under Cetacea, with skeletons made of bone.
In terms of respiration, sharks breathe using gills. Dolphins, as mammals, have lungs and breathe air through a blowhole.
Reproduction in sharks can vary; some lay eggs, while others give live birth. Dolphins give live birth and nurse their young with milk.
Sharks are typically solitary hunters, relying on their acute senses to find prey. Dolphins are known for their social behavior, often living and hunting in groups.
While some sharks are known for their aggressive behavior, dolphins are often regarded as friendly and intelligent, even interacting with humans.
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Comparison Chart
Classification
Cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes)
Marine mammal (Cetacea)
Skeleton
Made of cartilage
Made of bone
Respiration
Gills
Lungs, breathe through a blowhole
Reproduction
Some lay eggs, others live birth
Live birth, nurse young
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary
Highly social, live in groups
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Shark and Dolphin Definitions
Shark
Cartilaginous fish, predatory in nature.
The shark swiftly chased its prey.
Dolphin
Known for sharp teeth and strong jaws.
The shark's teeth were intimidating.
Shark
Diverse species ranging in size and habitat.
The small reef shark was hiding among corals.
Dolphin
Cartilaginous fish, predatory in nature.
The shark swiftly chased its prey.
Shark
Many have keen senses like electroreception.
The shark sensed the fish's movement.
Dolphin
Many have keen senses like electroreception.
The shark sensed the fish's movement.
Shark
Known for sharp teeth and strong jaws.
The shark's teeth were intimidating.
Dolphin
Diverse species ranging in size and habitat.
The small reef shark was hiding among corals.
Shark
Some species are dangerous to humans.
The great white shark is formidable.
Dolphin
Some species are dangerous to humans.
The great white shark is formidable.
Shark
Any of numerous cartilaginous fishes of the subclass Elasmobranchii that are chiefly carnivorous and marine. Sharks have a streamlined torpedolike body, five to seven gill openings on each side of the head, a large oil-filled liver, and tough skin covered with small toothlike scales.
Dolphin
Any of various marine toothed whales of the family Delphinidae, having a beaklike snout, a curved dorsal fin, and a slender streamlined body.
FAQs
Are dolphins smarter than sharks?
Dolphins are known for higher intelligence levels.
Can sharks and dolphins coexist?
Yes, but they generally have different behaviors.
How do sharks and dolphins breathe?
Sharks use gills, dolphins use lungs.
Do sharks eat dolphins?
Occasionally, larger sharks may prey on dolphins.
What's the dolphin's natural habitat?
Mostly in shallow seas of the continental shelves.
Are sharks important for the ecosystem?
Yes, as top predators, they maintain balance.
Are sharks and dolphins related?
No, they're from different biological classes.
Can dolphins live in freshwater?
Some species can, like the Amazon River dolphin.
Do dolphins sleep?
Yes, but they remain semi-conscious to breathe.
Can dolphins be trained?
Yes, they're known for trainability.
How long do sharks live?
Lifespan varies by species, some over 30 years.
Are dolphins endangered?
Some species are, due to various threats.
How do dolphins use echolocation?
They emit sounds and interpret the echoes.
Are all sharks dangerous to humans?
No, only a few species are considered dangerous.
Do sharks have good vision?
Yes, most have excellent vision.
How do dolphins communicate?
Through vocalizations and body language.
Do dolphins have natural predators?
Sharks and orcas can be predators.
What do sharks eat?
Their diet varies from fish to marine mammals.
What's the largest shark?
The whale shark is the largest.
How fast can sharks swim?
Depends on the species, some very fast.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
