Ocean Facts

Description

One of the most striking characteristics of the sheepshead fish is its teeth, which are amazingly similar to those we have in our mouths! Sharp and thick teeth begin to appear when a sheepshead fish is just 4.5 mm long, and as soon as the fish becomes about 15 mm long, all incisors appear. At the same time, its rear teeth develop into adult molars. There are two rows of molars on the lower jaw and three rows on the upper jaw. This heavy dentition allows sheepshead fish to crush and grind the shelled creatures that these fish prefer to feed on. (no picture because I don't want to keep looking at the thing)