Fin's Fish Guide
The Pondicherry shark (Carcharhinus hemiodon) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
Description
The Pondicherry shark is a requiem shark (Carcharhinidae) from coastal and brackish water of South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 2 metres and has a streamlined, grey body with a pale belly. This small inshore shark is extremely rare and was long considered possibly extinct. As an active predator it hunts fish, squid and crustaceans. Due to its size and sharp teeth it can be dangerous; it may bite when disturbed or near bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pondicherry shark?
The Pondicherry shark has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Pondicherry shark live?
The Pondicherry shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
How big does the Pondicherry shark get?
The Pondicherry shark grows to a maximum of about 200 cm.
Is the Pondicherry shark dangerous to humans?
The Pondicherry shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Keep your distance and do not handle the animal. For a bite: rinse the wound with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Always have a large or deep bite assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Pondicherry shark edible?
The Pondicherry shark is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carcharhinus
More from the family Carcharhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Pondicherry shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pondicherry shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.