The Horn Shark, scientifically known as Heterodontus francisci, is a species of bullhead shark belonging to the family Heterodontidae. It is a common sight in the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, particularly off the shores of California, Mexico, and Baja California.
Description & Characteristics
The Horn Shark is a distinctive species recognizable by its unique physical features. Adults can grow to a maximum size of 122.0 cm. Its body is robust and elongated, with a flattened head and a blunt snout. Two prominent, spiny horns protrude from above its eyes, giving it its characteristic name. Its skin is covered in small, rough dermal denticles, providing a sandpapery texture. Its coloration ranges from grayish-brown to olive-brown, often with darker blotches and spots scattered across its body.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Horn Shark is a benthic species, meaning it prefers to live on or near the seafloor. It can be found in a wide range of depths, from the surface to a depth of 152.0 meters. Its preferred habitat includes rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms. Heterodontus francisci is commonly found in the neritic zone, the shallow coastal waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. It also occurs in the epipelagic zone, the sunlit surface layer of the ocean.
Taxonomy
The Horn Shark, Heterodontus francisci, belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, the group encompassing cartilaginous fishes like sharks, rays, and skates. It is further classified within the Order: Heterodontiformes, a small group of sharks with unique tooth structure and physical characteristics. Heterodontus francisci is a member of the Family: Heterodontidae, the bullhead sharks, which are known for their stout bodies, flattened heads, and prominent horns.
Feeding
Heterodontus francisci is a carnivorous predator, primarily feeding on a variety of benthic invertebrates. Its diet consists of clam meat, crabs, rock shrimps, schrimps, sepia, and shrimps. Its distinctive dentition, with a mix of sharp and blunt teeth, allows it to efficiently crush and grind its prey.
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