The Sicklefin houndshark (Hemitriakis falcata) is a shark belonging to the family Triakidae, endemic to northwestern Australia. The holotype was collected from a depth of 492 feet. Its reproduction is unknown, but more than likely ovoviviparous.
Family: Triakidae – Houndsharks
Genus: Hemitriakis
Species: falcata
Phylum– Chordata
Class– Chondrichthyles
Common Name– Ground Sharks
Family– Triakidae
Common Name– Houndsharks
Genus– Hemitriakis
Species– falcata
Status: IUCN Red List LEAST CONCERN
Average Size and Length: They are born under 25 cm/9.8 inches. Adult males have been measured between 70-77 cm/2.2-2.5 feet.
Teeth and Jaw: The mouth is arched. It has small blade-like teeth. The main cusp is angled with serrations on the inner side of the tooth.
Head: The snout is parabolic. There are small anterior nasal flaps. The eyes are small and slightly elongated, with small spiracles behind.
Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: The Sicklefin houndshark can be found in northwestern Australia on the outer continental shelf between 479-646 feet. They are subtropical demersal.
Aesthetic Identification: The Sicklefin houndshark is a slender greyish-brown shark. There is no stripe below the snout. The two dorsal fins are of similar size, with distinct white tips. The dorsal fins, pectoral fins, and anal fin are strongly falcate in adult sharks. The first dorsal fin origin is over the pectoral fin insertions, in front of the pectoral fin free rear tips. Juveniles have saddles and large spots with solid centers on the body and the fins.
Biology and Reproduction: Unknown but could be ovoviviparous.
Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown.
Sicklefin Houndshark Future and Conservation: They are currently of least concern. Their range is very limited, but it is unfished for the most part.
Sicklefin Houndshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.