Fin's Fish Guide
The Winghead shark (Eusphyra blochii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sphyrnidae that grows up to 186 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei Darsm, Myanmar, Cambodia and others
Description
The winghead shark is a hammerhead shark (Sphyrnidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.9 metres and has a streamlined, grey body with an extraordinarily broad, wing-shaped head hammer, the widest of all hammerheads. As an active predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid in shallow coastal and estuarine water. Due to its size and teeth it can be dangerous; through overfishing the species is endangered.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Winghead shark?
The Winghead 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 Winghead shark live?
The Winghead shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei Darsm, Myanmar, Cambodia and others
How big does the Winghead shark get?
The Winghead shark grows to a maximum of about 186 cm.
Is the Winghead shark dangerous to humans?
The Winghead 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 Winghead shark edible?
Yes, the Winghead shark is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Winghead shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Winghead shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sphyrnidae
Want the complete picture on the Winghead shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Winghead shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.