New Caledonia Catshark

About the New Caledonia Catshark

New Caledonia Catsharks are only known from one specimen and are rare to spot. They are found, just like its name suggests, off the coast of the island New Caledonia near coral reefs.

Biology and Behaviour:

New Caledonia sharks are presumed, similar to other catsharks, to be bottom dwellers and weak swimmers. They swim at a depth of 49 m below the water and do not swim very far as they are weak swimmers.

New Caledonia catsharks grow to a maximum length of 79 cm.

Reproduction and Lifespan:

There is little known about New Caledonia catsharks because there was only one specimen caught and observed even though its range was well surveyed for its fish fauna.

Conservation and Tourism:

New Caledonia catsharks swim in a small range — keeping close to New Caledonia — which makes them vulnerable to fisheries because they are caught as bycatch. Their depleting population could also suffer from habitat deterioration as a result of mining operations and coral reef bleaching.  

The IUCN lists New Caledonia Catshark as vulnerable, but there are currently no conservation measures in place.

Do you have images or videos of New Caledonia Catsharks?
Submit them to [email protected].