Shark Gallbladder: Function and Location Explained

Sharks have a relatively large gallbladder near the liver. It stores and concentrates bile (produced by the liver) for fat digestion. When food enters the small intestine, the gallbladder contracts, releasing bile to emulsify fats.

The large size accommodates their high-fat diet (fish, marine mammals). The gallbladder also regulates bile flow—storing when fasting, releasing when food is present—ensuring efficient fat breakdown.