STARRY CATSHARK
Recently described catshark in New Caledonia
The Starry catshark (Asymbolus galacticus) is a species of shark belonging to the family Scyliorhinidae found in New Caledonia. It has a variegated color pattern and prefers tropical climates. The Starry catshark is a more recently described shark by Séret, B. & Last, P.R., 2008.
Family: Scyliorhinidae – Catsharks
Genus: Asymbolus
Species: galacticus
Phylum– Chordata
Class– Chondrichthyles
Common Name– Ground Sharks
Family– Scyliorhinidae
Common Name– Catsharks
Genus– Asymbolus
Species– galacticus
Status: IUCN Red List LEAST CONCERN
Average Size and Length: They have been recorded at 47.7 cm/1.6 feet.
Teeth and Jaw: The labial furrows are long. The teeth are distally pointed with 3 or 5 cusps. The median cusps much larger than the adjacent ones.
Head: The snout is narrow.
Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: They can be found in the western Pacific in New Caledonia at a depth range of between 771-1,805 feet. They are considered benthopelagic, preferring tropical climates.
Aesthetic Identification: The Starry catshark is a small and slender shark. It has a distinct variegated color pattern with whiteish blotches surrounded by rusty-brown spots and blotches. There are dorsal saddles on the back, and they are faint and dusky in color. The dorsal is light brown and a bit paler on the sides. The dorsal fins are of equal size. The claspers are long and slender in adult males. The anal fin is small, much smaller than the dorsal fins.
Biology and Reproduction: Unknown but possibly oviparous.
Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown.
Starry Catshark Future and Conservation: They are currently of least concern.
Starry Catshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.