Haploblepharus pictus, commonly known as the Painted Catshark, is a species of catshark belonging to the family Scyliorhinidae. This distinctive shark is found in the waters of the western Pacific Ocean, where it plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Haploblepharus pictus is a relatively small shark, reaching a maximum size of 57.0 cm. Its defining characteristic is its striking coloration: a pale gray to light brown body with scattered black spots and blotches, giving it a “painted” appearance. These markings serve as effective camouflage against the varied backgrounds of its habitat.
Habitat and Occurrence
Haploblepharus pictus is a benthic species, meaning it primarily lives on the ocean floor. They are most commonly found in shallow coastal waters, particularly on rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. Their distribution is confined to the western Pacific Ocean, where they are known to inhabit the waters of Japan, Korea, and China. Haploblepharus pictus is a common inhabitant of the neritic zone, the area of the ocean extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Haploblepharus pictus belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses all sharks, rays, and skates. This species is further classified within the Order: Carcharhiniformes, which includes a diverse range of sharks, and finally, the Family: Scyliorhinidae, known as the catsharks.
Feeding
Haploblepharus pictus is a carnivorous shark, feeding primarily on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They employ a hunting strategy typical of catsharks, using their keen senses of smell and sight to locate prey, then quickly ambushing them with a swift bite.
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