The Pygmy lanternshark (Etmopterus fusus) is a shark belonging to the family Etmopteridae found in the eastern Indian Ocean from northern Western Australia and possibly Java.
Family: Etmopteridae – Lantern Sharks
Genus: Etmopterus
Species: fusus
Phylum– Chordata
Class– Chondrichthyles
Subclass– Elasmobranchii
Common Name– Dogfish Sharks
Family– Etmopteridae
Common Name– Lantern Sharks
Genus– Etmopterus
Species– fusus
Status: IUCN Red List LEAST CONCERN
Average Size and Length: Mature males have been measured between 25-26 cm (9.8-10.2 inches). The maximum length recorded was 30 cm (11.8 inches) so far.
Denticles: The dermal denticles are arranged in regular rows on the flanks and on the caudal peduncle, but not on the head.
Tail: There is an elongated caudal peduncle.
Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: The Pygmy lanternshark can be found in the east Indian Ocean. They have been recorded in western Australia and possibly Java, Indonesia. They can be found over the continental slope between 1,411-1,805 feet in Australia, and possibly between 394-656 feet in Indonesia.
Aesthetic Identification: The Pygmy lanternshark is considered small or dwarf. It has a firm, cylindrical body. The body is dark greyish or black. There are faint dark markings on the flanks above and behind the pelvic fins and on the tail. The fins are pale with dark margins. The second dorsal fin is more than twice the height of the first dorsal fin.
Biology and Reproduction: Unknown, but presumably ovoviviparous.
Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown.
Pygmy Lanternshark Future and Conservation: They are of least concern at the moment. Only minor fishing activity goes on within the range.
Pygmy Lanternshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.