Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye sixgill shark (Hexanchus nakamurai) is a saltwater fish of the family Hexanchidae that grows up to 180 cm.
Description
The bigeye sixgill shark is a deep-sea shark occurring patchily in warm-temperate and tropical seas. The species grows to about 2 metres and has a slender, grey-brown body with six pairs of gill slits, unlike the five of most sharks, and conspicuously large, green-shining eyes. It lives on the continental slope between about 90 and 600 metres and hunts small to medium fish and crustaceans. It poses no danger to people. Through fishing pressure it is listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye sixgill shark?
The Bigeye sixgill shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Six pairs of gill slits and large green eyes; deep-sea dweller
Where does the Bigeye sixgill shark live?
The Bigeye sixgill shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Worldwide (deep sea)
How big does the Bigeye sixgill shark get?
The Bigeye sixgill shark grows to a maximum of about 180 cm.
Is the Bigeye sixgill shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye sixgill shark is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bigeye sixgill shark edible?
The Bigeye sixgill shark is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hexanchus
More from the family Hexanchidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye sixgill shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye sixgill shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.