17 Across

NYT Daily • September 6, 2025

Animal that’s born with a full set of teeth

Answer:

SHARK

Hint:

This apex predator is known for its cartilaginous skeleton and can grow and replace its teeth continuously throughout its life. Often found in the ocean, it’s a key part of many marine ecosystems.

Explanation:

This clue plays on a surprising fact about sharks—they’re one of the few animals born with a complete set of teeth, ready to hunt right away. The wording is straightforward with no hidden wordplay, just a direct biological trait that points to the answer. If you know that sharks are unique in this way, the answer clicks immediately. Otherwise, it’s a fun bit of trivia that makes the clue memorable.

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