Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Western Atlantic, from New Brunswick (Canada) to the Gulf of Mexico and along the Brazilian coast.
Description
The Atlantic sharpnose shark is a small predatory shark of the western Atlantic. It grows to about 110 cm and has a slender, streamlined grey body with a long, pointed snout and a pale belly. The species lives in coastal and brackish water down to about 280 m and is abundant over the continental shelf, in surf zones, bays and river mouths. It hunts small bony fishes, shrimps, crabs, worms and molluscs. Reproduction is placental viviparity: after a gestation of ten to eleven months one to seven pups are born. The species is harmless to humans and is fished for food.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark?
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender shark with a long pointed snout; placentally viviparous; sometimes small pale spots on the back in adults.
Where does the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark live?
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, from New Brunswick (Canada) to the Gulf of Mexico and along the Brazilian coast.
How big does the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark get?
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 70 cm.
Is the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark edible?
Yes, the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Rhizoprionodon
More from the family Carcharhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.