Recognition: The scalloped hammerhead has a marked central indentation on the anterior margin of the head, which gives it a "scalloped" look, a long and low second dorsal fin (its length is about twice the height of the fin) which almost reaches the precaudal pit. The rear margin of the pelvic fins are straight. The teeth are triangular, smooth-edged (often weakly serrated in large individuals), and similar in both jaws. The front teeth are erect, while subsequent teeth have oblique cusps.

Color: Color is deep olive to brownish gray above, shading to white below. The ventral tips of the pectoral fins are dusky or black.

Size: It grows to about 365 cm (12 ft).

Similar species: The great hammerhead has teeth with serrated edges and pelvic fins with curved rear margins. The smooth hammerhead lacks the central indentation on the anterior margin of the head.

Biology: This is a warm water species seldom found in water cooler than 22°C (72°F). It is a common species found both in coastal and in oceanic waters. It is cosmopolitan in warm waters. It ranges from New Jersey to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.

      Scalloped hammerhead length-weight relationship