Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese sawshark (Pristiophorus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pristiophoridae that grows up to 140 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Korea (North), Korea (South), Philippines and others
Description
The Japanese sawshark is a sawshark (Pristiophoridae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 1.4 metres and has a slender, grey-brown body and a long, flat, sword-shaped snout set with alternating large and small teeth, with a pair of long barbels halfway along it. As a bottom-dweller it sweeps the saw snout through sand and mud bottoms to injure or detect small fish and crustaceans. The toothed snout can give cuts when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese sawshark?
The Japanese sawshark has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Japanese sawshark live?
The Japanese sawshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Korea (North), Korea (South), Philippines and others
How big does the Japanese sawshark get?
The Japanese sawshark grows to a maximum of about 140 cm.
Is the Japanese sawshark dangerous to humans?
The Japanese sawshark can cause injury; handle it with care. The saw-like snout, set with sharp teeth, can give cuts when handled or with an unexpected swipe. Rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. For a deep wound seek medical care, update tetanus protection and watch for signs of infection.
Is the Japanese sawshark edible?
Yes, the Japanese sawshark is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristiophorus
More from the family Pristiophoridae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese sawshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese sawshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.