SHORTNOSE DEMON CATSHARK

Taxonomy:

Phylum– Chordata

Class– Chondrichthyles

Order– Carcharhiniformes

Common Name– Ground Sharks

Family– Scyliorhinidae

Common Name– Catsharks

Genus– Apristurus

Species– internatus

Status: IUCN Red List DATA DEFICIENT

Average Size and Length: Their length is mostly unknown. The type specimens were between 40-42 cm/1.3-1.4 feet, possibly an immature female.

Teeth and Jaw: The mouth is long and arched. There are very long labial furrows. The uppers reach the upper symphysis and the lowers are shorter. They have sharp burr-like teeth.

Head: They have a broad and flattened head with a relatively short and very broad snout. There are large nostrils. The mouth reaches in front of the eyes or slightly in front of them. The eyes are elongated and have a cat-like appearance.

Tail: The caudal fin is elongated.

Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: The Shortnose Demon catshark can be found in the east China sea off of China. The exact location of the type specimen is unknown. They can be found over the continental slope around 2,198 feet.

Aesthetic Identification: The Shortnose Demon catshark has a dark body with no light fin edges. The first dorsal fin base is over the pelvic fin bases. The first dorsal fin is slightly smaller than the second dorsal fin. The anal fin is large and moderately elongated. It is high and angular. It is separated from the tail fin by a small notch.

Biology and Reproduction: Unknown, but more than likely oviparous.

Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown. They may be nocturnal.

Shortnose Demon Catshark Future and Conservation: They are not evaluated. They may be taken as bycatch.

Shortnose Demon Catshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.