Scyliorhinidae

Scyliorhinidae is a family of sharks, commonly known as catsharks, that is found in all of the world’s oceans. They are characterized by their slender bodies, small mouths, and cat-like eyes. Catsharks are generally small in size, with the largest species reaching a length of about 1.5 meters. Most catsharks are bottom-dwelling fish that feed on invertebrates and small fish.

Lesser spotted dogfish – Scyliorhinus canicula

Striped catshark – Poroderma africanum

Leopard catshark – Poroderma pantherinum

Puffadder shyshark – Haploblepharus edwardsii

Dark shyshark – Haploblepharus pictus

Draughtsboard shark – Cephaloscyllium isabella

Draughtboard shark – Cephaloscyllium laticeps

Swellshark – Cephaloscyllium ventriosum

Coral catshark – Atelomycterus marmoratus

Spotted-belly catshark – Atelomycterus erdmanni

Common Names

Catsharks are commonly known as catsharks, but they may also be called:

  • Swellsharks
  • Dusky sharks
  • Hounds
  • Ribbontail catsharks
  • Speckled catsharks

Characteristics

Catsharks are characterized by a number of features that distinguish them from other shark families. These features include:

  • Slender body
  • Small mouth
  • Cat-like eyes
  • Two dorsal fins
  • One anal fin
  • Five gill slits
  • Small, pointed teeth
  • Lateral line system

Environments

Catsharks are found in all of the world's oceans, but they are most common in temperate and tropical waters. They are generally bottom-dwelling fish, but some species may be found in shallower waters or even in the open ocean.

References

For further information on Scyliorhinidae, please refer to the following sources: