Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark shy shark (Haploblepharus pictus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 57 cm.
Description
The dark shyshark is a small catshark endemic to the coastal waters of southern Africa. The species grows to about 57 cm and has a stocky, brown body with a pattern of dark saddles and pale spots. Its name 'shyshark' refers to its habit of curling into a ring and covering its eyes with its tail when threatened. As a bottom-dweller it lives on rocky reefs and in kelp forests in shallow coastal water and hunts small crustaceans, molluscs and fish. It lays egg capsules. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark shy shark?
The Dark shy shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Curls up into a ring when threatened; rock- and kelp-dwelling oviparous catshark
Where does the Dark shy shark live?
The Dark shy shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Africa (endemic)
How big does the Dark shy shark get?
The Dark shy shark grows to a maximum of about 57 cm.
Is the Dark shy shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark shy shark 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 Dark shy shark edible?
The Dark shy shark is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haploblepharus
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Dark shy shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark shy shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.