Hemitriakis
Hemitriakis is a genus of catsharks, commonly known as swellsharks. These sharks belong to the family Triakidae and are found in the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean.
Common Names
Members of the genus Hemitriakis are commonly called "swellsharks" due to their ability to inflate their bodies with water as a defense mechanism.
Characteristics
Swellsharks are characterized by their robust, fusiform bodies and relatively short, rounded snouts. They possess two dorsal fins, the first of which is larger than the second. Their anal fin is also well-developed, while their pectoral and pelvic fins are relatively small. The body color is typically gray or brown, often with darker markings.
The most distinctive feature of swellsharks is their ability to inflate their stomachs with water, making them appear much larger and less appealing to predators. This unique defense mechanism is facilitated by a large, expandable stomach and a specialized valve that prevents water from escaping.
Environments
Swellsharks inhabit shallow coastal waters, often found near rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy bottoms. They are primarily nocturnal, spending their days in sheltered areas and emerging at night to hunt for prey.
References
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