Fin's Fish Guide
The Goblin shark (Mitsukurina owstoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Mitsukurinidae that grows up to 617 cm.
Description
The goblin shark is a striking deep-sea shark occurring worldwide in all oceans. The species can grow to over 6 metres and has a soft, flabby body with a long, flat, blade-like snout and highly protrusible jaws full of needle-sharp teeth, with which it sucks in prey at lightning speed. The skin is pinkish-white due to blood vessels showing through. It lives at great depth along continental slopes, usually between 270 and 960 metres, and hunts fish, squid and crustaceans. It is a living fossil, the only surviving species of its family. Because of its deep habitat it is harmless to humans; the IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goblin shark?
The Goblin shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a plain pattern. Long flat sword-shaped snout and protrusible jaws; living fossil
Where does the Goblin shark live?
The Goblin shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Worldwide deep sea
How big does the Goblin shark get?
The Goblin shark grows to a maximum of about 617 cm. On average the species is around 200 cm.
Is the Goblin shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Goblin 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 Goblin shark edible?
The Goblin shark is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Goblin shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goblin shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.