Fin's Fish Guide
The Pyjama shark (Poroderma africanum) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 101 cm.
Description
The pyjama shark is a small catshark (Scyliorhinidae) from coastal waters of southern Africa. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a slender, greyish body with conspicuous dark longitudinal stripes, like pyjamas, and a pair of short barbels at the snout. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it hides by day in caves and crevices of rocky reefs and kelp and hunts cartilaginous fish, crustaceans, molluscs and small fish at night. It lays egg capsules. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pyjama shark?
The Pyjama shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Pyjama shark live?
The Pyjama shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: South Africa
How big does the Pyjama shark get?
The Pyjama shark grows to a maximum of about 101 cm.
Is the Pyjama shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Pyjama 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 Pyjama shark edible?
The Pyjama 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 Poroderma
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Pyjama shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pyjama shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.