Fin's Fish Guide
The Scoophead shark (Sphyrna media) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyrnidae that grows up to 150 cm.
North America: Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana and others
Description
The scoophead shark is a small hammerhead (Sphyrnidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine waters of the eastern Pacific and western Atlantic. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has the typical, scoop-shaped flattened hammer head, with the eyes set at the ends. As a predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid. It is usually shy of people, but as a hammerhead it can bite if disturbed or in fisheries; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scoophead shark?
The Scoophead shark has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Scoophead shark live?
The Scoophead shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana and others
How big does the Scoophead shark get?
The Scoophead shark grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Scoophead shark dangerous to humans?
The Scoophead shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Keep your distance and handle caught animals carefully. For a bite: apply firm pressure to stop bleeding, rinse with clean water and cover with a sterile dressing. Shark bites are deep and prone to infection: always seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Scoophead shark edible?
Yes, the Scoophead shark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphyrna
More from the family Sphyrnidae
Want the complete picture on the Scoophead shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scoophead shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.