Fin's Fish Guide
The Mexican horn shark (Heterodontus mexicanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Heterodontidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The Mexican hornshark is a bullhead shark (Heterodontidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a stocky body with a blunt, pig-like head, conspicuous brow ridges and, in front of each of the two dorsal fins, a stout spine. It inhabits rocky and sandy coastal bottoms from close inshore to at least 20 m deep. As a slow bottom hunter it cracks hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins with its flattened rear teeth. It reproduces with spiral egg cases. The dorsal fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled; otherwise it is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mexican horn shark?
The Mexican horn shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pig-like head with brow ridges and a spine in front of each dorsal fin; cracks hard-shelled prey.
Where does the Mexican horn shark live?
The Mexican horn shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky and sandy coastal bottoms.
How big does the Mexican horn shark get?
The Mexican horn shark grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Mexican horn shark dangerous to humans?
The Mexican horn shark can cause injury; handle it with care. In front of each dorsal fin stands a stout spine that can give a painful puncture wound when handled. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Mexican horn shark edible?
The Mexican horn shark is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heterodontus
More from the family Heterodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Mexican horn shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mexican horn shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.