Mustelus
Mustelus is a genus of houndsharks in the family Triakidae. The genus comprises around 20 species found in warm and temperate waters worldwide. They are commonly known as smoothhounds, smooth-hounds, or dogfish sharks. Mustelus sharks are characterized by their slender, fusiform bodies, and are known for their relatively slow swimming speed.
Characteristics
Mustelus sharks are typically small to medium-sized, with most species reaching a length of 1-2 meters. They have a pointed snout, two dorsal fins, two pectoral fins, two pelvic fins, and a single anal fin. The first dorsal fin is usually larger than the second and is positioned over or slightly behind the pectoral fins. Their bodies are covered with small, smooth dermal denticles, giving them a smooth appearance. These sharks have five gill slits on each side of the head, and a small mouth positioned at the tip of the snout.
Mustelus sharks are characterized by their dentition. They possess multiple rows of small, pointed teeth, adapted for crushing and grinding prey. Their teeth are similar in shape, with cusps that are typically smooth or slightly serrated. Their coloration varies between species, ranging from gray to brown, often with darker spots or stripes.
Environment
Mustelus sharks are found in coastal waters, often inhabiting sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and seagrass meadows. They are generally found at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters. Some species are more tolerant of cold waters and can be found in deeper environments. Many species of Mustelus are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. Females produce a litter of 2 to 15 pups after a gestation period of 9 to 12 months.
Diet
Mustelus sharks are primarily benthic feeders, meaning they primarily feed on organisms found at the bottom of the ocean floor. Their diet consists mainly of crustaceans, cephalopods, small fish, and other invertebrates. They use their keen sense of smell and electroreception to locate prey in their environment. Some species are known to exhibit feeding aggregations, where large numbers of individuals gather to feed on abundant prey.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Mustelus species varies. While some are relatively common and have a stable population, others are facing threats from overfishing, habitat loss, and bycatch. Several species are listed as threatened or endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is important to support sustainable fishing practices and promote conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of these sharks.