Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian smooth hound (Mustelus antarcticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Triakidae that grows up to 157 cm.
Description
The gummy shark is a small smooth-hound (Triakidae) from the coastal and shelf waters of southern Australia. The species reaches about 157 cm and has a slender, grey body with white spots. Unlike many sharks it has flat, crushing teeth with which it crushes hard-shelled prey; the diet consists of crustaceans, marine worms, small fishes and squid. It occurs from the intertidal zone to about 350 m deep and forms schools by sex and size. The species is ovoviviparous and is an important and harmless food fish, marketed as 'flake'.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian smooth hound?
The Australian smooth hound has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Flat, grinding teeth for crushing shells; harmless, ovoviviparous food shark.
Where does the Australian smooth hound live?
The Australian smooth hound lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal and shelf waters of southern Australia.
How big does the Australian smooth hound get?
The Australian smooth hound grows to a maximum of about 157 cm.
Is the Australian smooth hound dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian smooth hound is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Australian smooth hound edible?
Yes, the Australian smooth hound is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Australian smooth hound?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian smooth hound is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mustelus
More from the family Triakidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian smooth hound?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian smooth hound is one of 12,519 species in the app.