Green-eye Spurdog

About the Green-eye Spurdog

The Greeneye Spurdog is a deepwater shark that was recently described in 2007. They can be found off the coasts of New Zealand and Australia at depths between 213 to 1360 m.

Biology and Behaviour

Green-eye spurdogs are small sized dogfish that have a broad, pointed snout. Along their back, they are grey, but their underside is paler. They can grow up to 85.6 cm long, and males mature at the length of 68.5 cm.

Reproduction and Lifespan

Green-eye spurdogs are ovoviviparous. Their litter size is unknown. 

Conservation and Tourism

The green-eye spurdog has been listed as near threatened on the IUCN’s Red List. There are currently no specific conservation actions for this species, however, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) implemented two methods that benefit green-eye spurdogs. The first method began in 2003 where vessels are required to land both the liver and carcasses of dogfishes in order to be accurately recorded. The second method started in 2007 where SESS Fishery closed fishing below 700 m to prevent targeted fishing for deepwater species.

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