Fin's Fish Guide
The Brazilian sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon lalandii) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Western Atlantic; from the Caribbean (Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad, the Guianas) southwards to southern Brazil; shallow coastal waters.
Description
The Brazilian sharpnose shark is a small requiem shark of the family Carcharhinidae from the western Atlantic off South America. The species grows to about 70 cm and has a slender, greyish body with a long, pointed snout. It inhabits shallow coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms and is not normally found in lagoons and estuaries. As a predator it hunts small fishes, crustaceans and squid. Owing to intensive coastal fishing and bycatch the species is listed as Vulnerable (VU). Though small and not dangerous, a hooked shark with sharp teeth can bite; handle it with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brazilian sharpnose shark?
The Brazilian sharpnose shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long, pointed snout; vulnerable small coastal shark due to fishing and bycatch.
Where does the Brazilian sharpnose shark live?
The Brazilian sharpnose shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; from the Caribbean (Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad, the Guianas) southwards to southern Brazil; shallow coastal waters.
How big does the Brazilian sharpnose shark get?
The Brazilian sharpnose shark grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 55 cm.
Is the Brazilian sharpnose shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Brazilian sharpnose shark is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a shark with sharp teeth; keep clear of the mouth of a caught or hooked fish and handle only with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Brazilian sharpnose shark edible?
Yes, the Brazilian sharpnose shark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhizoprionodon
More from the family Carcharhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Brazilian sharpnose shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brazilian sharpnose shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.