Fin's Fish Guide
The Bull-head shark (Heterodontus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Heterodontidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The Japanese bullhead shark is a small bottom shark of the family Heterodontidae from the northwestern Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China. The species reaches about 120 cm and has a blunt, high head, dark cross-bands and, characteristic of bullhead sharks, a stout spine before each dorsal fin. It lives near shore on the continental shelf, mainly on rocky and kelp-covered bottoms. With its flattened rear teeth it crushes crustaceans, molluscs and sea urchins; it also eats small fishes. The species is oviparous and lays spiral-shaped egg cases. The fin spines can cause injury when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bull-head shark?
The Bull-head shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Blunt 'horn shark' with a spine in front of each dorsal fin; lays spiral egg cases and cracks shells.
Where does the Bull-head shark live?
The Bull-head shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China.
How big does the Bull-head shark get?
The Bull-head shark grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 70 cm.
Is the Bull-head shark dangerous to humans?
The Bull-head shark can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp pectoral and dorsal (and head) spines can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled. Handle carefully and clean and disinfect a wound.
Is the Bull-head shark edible?
The Bull-head 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 Heterodontus
More from the family Heterodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Bull-head shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bull-head shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.