Gulf Smooth-hound

About the Gulf Smooth-hound

The Gulf Smooth-hound is a recently described houndshark endemic to the Gulf of Mexico at depths of 36 to 229 m but typically found around 42 to 91 m deep.

There is very little known about the biology and ecology of gulf smoothhounds.

Biology and Behaviour

Gulf smooth-hounds are grey to grey-brown on top with a lighter coloured underside. They have an elongated, slender body with a short head and a short pointed snout. Similar to many sharks, gulf smooth-hounds also have nictitating lower eyelids and have five pairs of gill slits.   

Reproduction and Lifespan

Gulf smoothhounds are ovoviviparous. Females can have a litter size up to eight pups that are 39 to 43 cm long at birth. Males mature at around 80 cm long, and females between 118 to 140 cm. They can grow up to 140 cm long.

Conservation and Tourism

The IUCN lists gulf smoothhounds as data deficient because more research is needed to further assess this species. There are no conservation measures currently in place.

Do you have images or videos of Gulf Smooth-hounds?
Submit them to [email protected].

Gulf Smooth-hound Gallery