Pinocchio Catshark

About the Pinocchio Catshark

Pinocchio Catsharks are small deepwater sharks that can be found along the Australian continental slope at depths of 485 to 1,035 m underwater in open seas near seamounts.

Biology and Behaviour

This catshark is aptly named for its long, flattened prenarial snout. They can vary in colour with a uniform colour of pale brown, light grey and light yellow-brown. Its upper labial furrows are longer than the lower ones.

Reproduction and Lifespan

There is little known about pinocchio cathsarks. They grow to at least 61 cm to 83 cm long. Males mature at about 45 to 50 cm and females 45 to 55 cm.

Conservation and Tourism

The IUCN lists the pinocchio catshark as least concern. In southeast Australia, fishing operations at depths below 700 m is closed to trawling which provides protection for this species. There are also marine protected areas in the Australian Commonwealth Marine Reserve network.

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