Typical "cat shark" appearance. Two equal-sized dorsal fins. Origin of first dorsal fin over the pelvic fin"s ends. Nostrils enlarged.
Coloration
Uniformly brown with inconspicuously developed saddles and light ventral surface.
Distribution
Western Indian Ocean: South Africa.
Biology
A common species that lives preferably over stony bottoms. This particular species ( as well as a few others) are sometimes called "shy sharks" because they coil themselves and cover their eyes with their tails when caught.
Diet
Invertebrates (lobsters) and small fishes.
Size
Average size between 50 cm and 60 cm, maximum total length up to 73 cm.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg laying). Males reach sexual maturity at about 65 cm, females between 60 cm and 70 cm.
Similar Species
Some species with a similar appearance do exist and taxonomic features have to be used to cleary distinguish.
Vulnerability
Category:Vulnerable (VU) Criteria:A2bcd Last evaluated:2020 Trend:
