PARASCYLLIIDAE COLLARED CARPETSHARKS

The Parascylliidae, or Collared Carpetsharks, are a small family of sharks belonging to the order Orectolobiformes or common name Carpet sharks, only found inshore to deepish waters off the continental shelf of the western Pacific.

There are two genera, Cirrhoscyllium and Parascyllium. Parascyllium is found endemic to Australia and Cirrhoscyllium can be found from Vietnam to Taiwan Island and Japan.

They are relatively small, slender sharks, with the largest species reaching no more than 3.0 ft in adult length. They have elongated, slender bodies, cat-like eyes with tiny spiracles. They feed on small fish and invertebrates. The first dorsal fin originates behind the pelvic fin bases. The second dorsal fin is well behind the anal fin origin. The mouth is in front of the eyes.

Cirrhoscyllium have unique cartilage-cored paired barbels on the throat, with dark saddles and no spots or collar markings. Parascyllium have no barbels on the throat and a pattern of saddles and spots.

Possibly all species belonging to this family are oviparous, laying elongated flattened egg cases.

Some species thrive and are well-kept in captivity. They may be taken as bycatch. Some may be threatened in heavily fished areas.