Fin's Fish Guide
The Pygmy shark (Euprotomicrus bispinatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Dalatiidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The pygmy shark is one of the smallest sharks in the world and is widely distributed in subtropical and temperate waters of the southern hemisphere and beyond. The species grows to only about 30 cm and has a cigar-shaped, black body with white fin edges and a luminous belly; the dorsal fins are very small and the tail is paddle-shaped. It is a deep-sea fish that makes daily vertical migrations: at night it swims near the surface and by day it descends to hundreds of metres deep. It hunts squid, fish and crustaceans. The species is ovoviviparous and bears about eight young. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pygmy shark?
The Pygmy shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. One of the smallest sharks; luminous belly; daily vertical migrations
Where does the Pygmy shark live?
The Pygmy shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Subtropical and temperate oceans
How big does the Pygmy shark get?
The Pygmy shark grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Pygmy shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Pygmy shark 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 Pygmy shark edible?
The Pygmy shark is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Dalatiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pygmy shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.