Fin's Fish Guide
The Common sawshark (Pristiophorus cirratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pristiophoridae that grows up to 137 cm.
Description
The common sawshark is a remarkable shark from the seas around southern Australia. The species grows to about 137 cm and has a flattened, brownish-grey body and a very long, flat, tooth-studded saw snout with a pair of barbels halfway along. With the saw it stirs up and stuns prey in sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 37 and 310 metres. It bears live young. The saw can cause injuries when the shark is caught, but it is otherwise harmless. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common sawshark?
The Common sawshark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very long toothed saw-snout with barbels; bottom-rooting sawshark
Where does the Common sawshark live?
The Common sawshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Common sawshark get?
The Common sawshark grows to a maximum of about 137 cm. On average the species is around 125 cm.
Is the Common sawshark dangerous to humans?
No, the Common sawshark 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 Common sawshark edible?
The Common sawshark is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristiophorus
More from the family Pristiophoridae
Want the complete picture on the Common sawshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common sawshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.