Small, with moderately broad and anteriorly arched hammer (mallet- shaped head), weak medial and lateral indentations on its anterior edge and transverse posterior margins. First dorsal fin falcate with the free rear tip ends over the pelvic origins. Origin of first dorsal fin over the inner margins of the pectoral fins. Second dorsal fin moderately high, not reaching the caudal fin with its free rear end. Precaudal pit present.
Coloration
Grey-brown with white ventral surface.
Distribution
Western Atlantic: Panama to southern Brazil. Eastern Pacific: Gulf of California to Equador, possibly northern Peru.
Biology
A little-known species of the continental shelf region.
Diet
Fishes.
Size
Averages size between 120 cm and 130 cm, maximum total length about 150 cm.
Reproduction
Viviparous, with yolksac-placenta (gives birth to live young). Size at birth between 30 cm and 35 cm. Males reach sexual maturity at about 90 cm, females between 100 cm and 130 cm.
Similar Species
Other hammerheads have a similar appearance and taxonomic features have to be used to clearly distinguish among them.
Vulnerability
Category:Critically Endangered (CR) Criteria:A2bcd Last evaluated:2020 Trend: