how do sharks move

Sharks move primarily by using side-to-side movements of their tail, or caudal fin, which acts like a propeller. As the shark swings its tail back and forth, it pushes water backward, generating thrust that propels the shark forward. This tail movement creates powerful thrust and allows sharks to swim at high speeds, stop suddenly, and make sharp turns with great precision. Sharks do not have swim bladders like bony fish to control buoyancy; instead, they rely on dynamic lift generated by their forward movement and the angles of their fins. Sharks have paired pectoral fins on their sides that help with maneuvering, lifting, and controlling vertical position in the water. They also have dorsal fins on their backs and sometimes anal fins underneath, which provide stability and aid in steering. The caudal fin of most sharks is heterocercal, meaning the top lobe is larger than the bottom lobe. This asymmetry helps to create lift as the shark moves forward, preventing it from sinking. The shark's streamlined body and specialized skin scales reduce drag, making their swimming efficient and allowing them to be agile hunters. In essence, sharks swim by combining their powerful tail thrust, fin adjustments for lift and steering, and streamlined body shape to move swiftly and efficiently through the water.