Fin's Fish Guide
The Mallethead shark (Sphyrna corona) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyrnidae that grows up to 92 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
Description
The mallethead shark is a small hammerhead (Sphyrnidae) from shallow coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 92 cm and has the typical, flattened hammer head, with the eyes at the ends. As a predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid in turbid coastal water and river mouths. It is usually shy, but as a hammerhead it can bite if disturbed or in fisheries; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mallethead shark?
The Mallethead shark has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Mallethead shark live?
The Mallethead shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
How big does the Mallethead shark get?
The Mallethead shark grows to a maximum of about 92 cm.
Is the Mallethead shark dangerous to humans?
The Mallethead shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Keep your distance and handle caught animals carefully. For a bite: apply firm pressure to stop bleeding, rinse with clean water and cover with a sterile dressing. Shark bites are deep and prone to infection: always seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Mallethead shark edible?
The Mallethead shark is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphyrna
More from the family Sphyrnidae
Want the complete picture on the Mallethead shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mallethead shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.