Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluntnose sevengill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Hexanchidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Worldwide in temperate coastal waters; continental shelf, bays and estuaries.
Description
The broadnose sevengill shark is a large, ancient shark of the cow shark family (Hexanchidae), recognisable by its seven gill slits instead of the usual five and a single dorsal fin set far back. The species grows to about three metres and has a broad, blunt head profile and a grey body with numerous small dark and light spots. It lives on the continental shelf, often in shallow water, bays and estuaries. As a powerful apex predator it hunts, often in groups, sharks, rays, bony fishes and marine mammals. The broadnose sevengill shark is listed as Vulnerable (VU). It is potentially dangerous and can bite; keep well clear.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluntnose sevengill shark?
The Bluntnose sevengill shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Seven gill slits (instead of five) and a single dorsal fin set far back; powerful apex predator.
Where does the Bluntnose sevengill shark live?
The Bluntnose sevengill shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Worldwide in temperate coastal waters; continental shelf, bays and estuaries.
How big does the Bluntnose sevengill shark get?
The Bluntnose sevengill shark grows to a maximum of about 300 cm. On average the species is around 150 cm.
Is the Bluntnose sevengill shark dangerous to humans?
The Bluntnose sevengill shark can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but a large shark with sharp teeth; keep well clear of a caught or hooked shark and handle only with the greatest care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care.
Is the Bluntnose sevengill shark edible?
The Bluntnose sevengill shark is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bluntnose sevengill shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluntnose sevengill shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Hexanchidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluntnose sevengill shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluntnose sevengill shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.