Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon longurio) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The Pacific sharpnose shark is a small requiem shark of the family Carcharhinidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 1.1 metres and has a slender, grey-brown body with a long, pointed snout, to which the name refers. Adults live on the continental shelf, most commonly near shore. As a predator it hunts small fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods. Reproduction is viviparous. Though small and not regarded as dangerous to humans, it remains a shark with sharp teeth; owing to fishing it is listed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific sharpnose shark?
The Pacific sharpnose shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long, pointed snout; small, ovoviviparous coastal shark, vulnerable (VU) due to fishing.
Where does the Pacific sharpnose shark live?
The Pacific sharpnose shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific; continental shelf, most commonly near the coast.
How big does the Pacific sharpnose shark get?
The Pacific sharpnose shark grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Pacific sharpnose shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific sharpnose shark is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a shark with sharp teeth; keep clear of the mouth and handle a caught or hooked shark with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Pacific sharpnose shark edible?
Yes, the Pacific sharpnose shark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhizoprionodon
More from the family Carcharhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific sharpnose shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific sharpnose shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.