Hemitriakis japanica, commonly known as the is a species of requiem shark found in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. This species is a member of the family Triakidae, which includes a wide variety of dogfish sharks.
Description & Characteristics
Hemitriakis japanica is a relatively large shark, reaching a maximum size of 110.0 cm in length. It is characterized by a slender body and a long, pointed snout. Its coloration is typically a greyish-brown to brown, with a lighter underside. The species has two dorsal fins, a single anal fin, and a pair of pectoral fins.
Habitat and Occurrence
Hemitriakis japanica is a deep-water shark, found at depths ranging from 20.0 to 345.0 meters. This species is typically found in the bathypelagic and mesopelagic zones, inhabiting waters that are dimly lit and relatively cold. The species is known to be a common resident of the northwestern Pacific Ocean, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Hemitriakis japanica belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Carcharhiniformes, and Family: Triakidae. Elasmobranchii is a class of cartilaginous fish that includes sharks, rays, and skates. The Order: Carcharhiniformes encompasses a large group of sharks, including the requiem sharks, hammerhead sharks, and dogfish sharks. The Family: Triakidae, commonly known as the dogfish sharks, are characterized by their slender bodies and long, pointed snouts.
Feeding
Hemitriakis japanica is a carnivore, feeding primarily on smaller fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Its diet is likely to vary depending on the availability of prey in its deep-water habitat. The species has sharp teeth that are adapted for gripping and tearing flesh.
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