Fin's Fish Guide
The Puffadder shyshark (Haploblepharus edwardsii) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 59 cm.
Description
The Puffadder shyshark is a small catshark or shyshark (Scyliorhinidae) from coastal waters of southern Africa. The species grows to about 59 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with a pattern of orange-brown saddles and white spots body. When threatened it curls into a ring and covers its eyes with the tail, hence the name shyshark. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it hunts crustaceans, molluscs and small fish and lays eggs in horny capsules. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Puffadder shyshark?
The Puffadder shyshark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Puffadder shyshark live?
The Puffadder shyshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: South Africa
How big does the Puffadder shyshark get?
The Puffadder shyshark grows to a maximum of about 59 cm.
Is the Puffadder shyshark dangerous to humans?
No, the Puffadder shyshark is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Puffadder shyshark edible?
The Puffadder shyshark is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haploblepharus
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Puffadder shyshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Puffadder shyshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.