Fin's Fish Guide
The Bullhead (Heterodontus portusjacksoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Heterodontidae that grows up to 165 cm.
Description
The Port Jackson shark is a bullhead shark (Heterodontidae) from the waters around southern Australia. The species is recognised by its blunt, pig-like head with crests above the eyes, a dark harness pattern and a sharp spine in front of each of the two dorsal fins. It lives on the continental shelf, from the intertidal to deeper water, often near rocky reefs. With its rounded rear teeth it crushes shellfish, sea urchins and molluscs. It lays spiral-shaped egg cases. The sharp dorsal fin spines can cause injuries when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bullhead?
The Bullhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Blunt pig-like head with head crests and a spine in front of each dorsal fin; cracks crustaceans, lays spiral egg cases.
Where does the Bullhead live?
The Bullhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Around southern Australia; continental shelf near rocky reefs.
How big does the Bullhead get?
The Bullhead grows to a maximum of about 165 cm. On average the species is around 137 cm.
Is the Bullhead dangerous to humans?
The Bullhead can cause injury; handle it with care. In front of each dorsal fin is a sharp spine that can cause painful puncture and cut wounds when handled. Handle with care; clean and disinfect a wound and seek medical care for a deep wound.
Is the Bullhead edible?
The Bullhead 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 Bullhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bullhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.