Small and very unique looking shark. Very big eyes, no nictitating membrane. Long gill slits. Small pectoral fins, small dorsal fins. Weak keels on peduncle, precaudal pit present. Asymetrical caudal fin (not lunate-shaped).
Coloration
Greyish-brown with white ventral surface. Sometimes seen with white dots. All fins have white margins.
Distribution
Probably worldwide in tropical waters. Western Atlantic: Cuba to northern Brazil. Eastern Atlantic: Cape Verde Islands to South Africa. Western Indian Ocean: Mozambique. Western Pacific: Japan, Taiwan, Korea. Central Pacific: Marquesas, Hawaiian Islands. Eastern Pacific: Baja California, Costa Rica, Panama.
Biology
A rare to locally abundant species. Prefers epipelagic and oceanic waters down to a depth of 300 m. The firm musculature, the small precaudal fins and the large caudal fin suggest they may be active swimmers. Based on their big eyes, nocturnal activity is likely.
Diet
Unknown. Probably invertebrates and fishes.
Size
Average size between 60 cm and 80 cm. Maximum total length about 110 cm.
Reproduction
Aplacental viviparous (ovoviviparous), with uterine cannibalism. Size at birth 40 cm. Males reach sexual maturity at 75 cm (minimum), females at 90 cm (minimum).
Similar Species
Unmistakable.
Vulnerability
Category:Least Concern (LC) Criteria: - Last evaluated:2019 Trend: