Poroderma
Poroderma is a genus of catsharks in the family Scyliorhinidae. It contains two species: the leopard catshark (Poroderma pantherinum) and the speckled catshark (Poroderma africanum). These sharks are found in the cool waters of the South Atlantic and South Pacific oceans off the coasts of southern Africa and South America.
Common Names
The two species of Poroderma are commonly known as:
- Leopard Catshark (Poroderma pantherinum)
- Speckled Catshark (Poroderma africanum)
Characteristics
Poroderma sharks are characterized by their slender bodies, flattened heads, and large, widely spaced eyes. Their bodies are covered in numerous small, dark spots, giving them a distinctive spotted appearance. They have two dorsal fins, both of which are positioned near the tail, and a small, pointed anal fin. Their coloration varies between the two species, with the leopard catshark having larger spots than the speckled catshark.
Environments
Both species of Poroderma inhabit the rocky reefs and kelp forests of the cold, temperate waters they occupy. They are generally found at depths of up to 200 meters (660 feet), but can sometimes be seen in shallower waters.
References
For further information on Poroderma, refer to the following reliable sources: