Orange Spotted Catshark

About the Orange Spotted Catshark

The Orange Spotted Catshark can only be found off the coast of Western Australia at depths between 25 to 540 m, but usually not found in shallower waters.

Biology and Behaviour

Orange spotted catsharks are small pale brown sharks with, like their name suggests, orange-brown spots along their body. They have a faint brownish blotch beneath their eye and between each dark saddle, there is a cluster of spots.

Reproduction and Lifespan

Orange spotted catsharks are oviparous and their eggs are laid in pairs. Females mature at about 36 cm long and males a little shorter at roughly around 34 cm long. They can grow up to 55 cm in length, but are commonly 39.3 cm long. 

Conservation and Tourism

The IUCN lists orange spotted catsharks as least concern. There are no conservation measures in place for this species, however, their range overlaps with some protected areas within the Commonwealth Marine Reserve network.

Do you have images or videos of Orange Spotted Catsharks?
Submit them to info@sharkwater.com.