New Zealand Catshark

About the New Zealand Catshark

The New Zealand Catshark is a species of catshark of the family Scyliorhinidae, found in the deep waters around New Zealand.

Biology:

There is little information regarding this species’ biology. Males mature at 35 to 36 cm TL, and females mature at 37 to 38 cm TL. Males and females grow to similar maximum lengths, its maximum recorded size is 41.5 cm TL. Their reproductive mode is ovoviviparous, females produce thick-shelled egg cases, two at a time, that are presumably deposited on the seabed. Young are born at less than 20 cm TL. Feeds mainly on crustaceans.

Habitat:

The New Zealand Catshark is bathydemersal species found on the outer continental shelf and upper slope. Occurs at a depth range of 50 to 750 m, but it is most abundant in 300 to 700 m.

Conservation:

This species is probably caught as trawl bycatch, but due to its size escaping from the trawl nets might be easier. There are no current conservation measures in place for this species.   

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