"Nurse shark"-like appearance with large, conspicuous dermal tubercles, resembling warts. Small dermal lobes on the sides and front of the head. Mouth ahead of eyes. Two low dorsal fins. Origin of the first dorsal fin in front of the pelvic midbases. Pectoral and pelvic fins are small. Origin of anal fin behind the free end of the second dorsal fin. Large spiracles present.
Coloration
Dorsal surface with a color pattern of jagged-edged broad dark saddles and scattered dark spots on light background.
Distribution
Western Pacific: Australia (southern and western Australia).
Biology
Little known but common in its range. Prefers rocky bottoms and coral reefs.
Diet
Bottom living invertebrates and fishes. This species possesses two rows of enlarged fanglike teeth in its upper jaw and 3 rows in its lower jaw.
Size
Average size about 70 cm to 90 cm. Maximum total length probably around 100 cm.
Reproduction
Aplacental viviparous (ovoviviparous). Size at birth about 22 cm. Males reach sexual maturity at approximately 65 cm.
Similar Species
Similar to other wobbegongs but color patters and dermal lobes are good features to distinguish this species from others.
Vulnerability
Category:Least Concern (LC) Criteria: - Last evaluated:2015 Trend:
