The Pale catshark (Apristurus sibogae) is a rare catshark of the family Scyliorhinidae. The holotype, the only specimen, was found on the Makassar Strait slope at a depth of 655 m/2,149 feet. Its length is around 21 cm/8.3 inches, although this measurement was taken from a juvenile specimen. The Pale catshark makes honorable mention in our PSD ranked World’s Smallest Sharks, read about them here.
Family: Scyliorhinidae – Catsharks
Genus: Apristurus
Species: sibogae
Phylum– Chordata
Class– Chondrichthyles
Common Name– Ground Sharks
Family– Scyliorhinidae
Common Name– Catsharks
Genus– Apristurus
Species– sibogae
Status: IUCN Red List DATA DEFICIENT
Average Size and Length: The length of the Pale catshark is mostly unknown. One juvenile was measured at 21 cm/8.3 inches.
Teeth and Jaw: The labial furrows are long. The uppers reach the upper symphysis and the lowers are about the same length. The teeth are small, sharp and burr-like.
Head: The head is broad and flattened. The snout is narrow and pointed. The mouth extends well in front of the eyes. The eyes are very small.
Tail: The tail fin is long and narrow.
Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: The Pale catshark can be found in Indonesia in the Makassar Straits between Borneo and Sulawesi on the straits slope around 2,149 feet. They are considered bathydemersal.
Aesthetic Identification: The Pale catshark is white or reddish-white. The longest gill slit is about equal to the eye length. The pectoral fins are very large. The pelvic fins are small and low. The first dorsal fin is much smaller than the second dorsal fin. The first dorsal fin originates behind the pelvic fin insertions. The anal fin is angular and elongated. It is separated from the tail fin by a small notch.
Biology and Reproduction: Unknown. They could possibly be oviparous.
Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown. They could possibly be nocturnal.
Pale Catshark Future and Conservation: They are not evaluated; they are only known from one specimen.
Pale Catshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.