Chiloscyllium
Chiloscyllium is a genus of catsharks in the family Hemiscylliidae. They are commonly known as bamboo sharks due to their slender bodies and distinctive coloration. These sharks are distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean.
Characteristics
Chiloscyllium species possess several distinguishing characteristics, including:
- Slender, elongated bodies with a flattened, somewhat depressed head.
- Large, prominent eyes with a nictitating membrane.
- A broad, flattened snout with a distinct nasal flap.
- Two dorsal fins, the first being larger and situated behind the pectoral fins.
- A small, rounded anal fin.
- A caudal fin with a distinct lower lobe.
- Coloration typically consists of brown or grey background with darker spots and blotches.
These sharks typically range in size from 60 to 120 cm (24 to 47 in), with the largest species, Chiloscyllium plagiosum, reaching up to 150 cm (59 in) in length.
Environment
Bamboo sharks are primarily found in shallow, coastal waters, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores. They are generally nocturnal, resting during the day in crevices or under rocks and becoming active at night to hunt. Their diet consists primarily of small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.
Reproduction
Chiloscyllium species are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Females deposit egg capsules that are typically attached to rocks or coral. The egg capsules are characterized by their leathery texture and elongated, cigar-shaped form. They are often referred to as "mermaid's purses" due to their unique appearance.
Species
There are currently 14 recognized species within the genus Chiloscyllium, including:
- Chiloscyllium arabicum
- Chiloscyllium burmensis
- Chiloscyllium griseum
- Chiloscyllium indicum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum
- Chiloscyllium plagiosum