7 pairs of gill slits. Narrow, pointed head with large, green fluorescent eyes. One dorsal fin. Long caudal peduncle.
Coloration
Greyish-brown on back, lighter ventral surface. Tip of dorsal fin and caudal fin can be dusky, prominent in young, absent or faded in adults.
Distribution
Wide ranging in tropical and temperate seas. Western Atlantic: North Carolina to Cuba, Gulf of Mexico. Southern Brazil, Argentina. Eastern Atlantic: Morocco, Angola, western Mediterranean. Indian Ocean: South Africa, Mozambique, India. Western Pacific: Japan, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand. Eastern Pacific: Chile.
Biology
Lives preferably in deeper waters over the continental shelves and upper slopes, usually between 25 m and 700 m depth. Can also be found close to the surface. This species is probably a strong swimmer.
Diet
Fishes (such as hake), squid and crustaceans.
Size
Average size between 90 cm and 110 cm, maximum length about 135 cm.
Reproduction
Aplacental viviparous (ovoviviparous). 9 to 20 pups per litter. Size at birth is 25 cm. Males reach sexual maturity at about 85 cm, females at 90 cm.
Similar Species
Can be mistaken for the , however the Broadnose seven gill has a distinctive color (numerous black spots over entire body), small eyes and is much bigger.
Vulnerability
Category:Near Threatened (NT) Criteria:A2bd Last evaluated:2020 Trend: