Pocket shark

About the Pocket shark

The Pocket shark is a species of kitefin shark of the family Dalatiidae, also known as sleeper sharks. The only member of its genus, Mollisquama, found off Chile in the southeast Pacific Ocean.

Biology and Description:

From the one specimen caught in the Gulf of Mexico, the body was described as cylindrical shape-like, with a wide, rounded snout that tapers back toward the caudal tip. The one specimen measured about 40 cm (15.7 in) TL and weight 14.6 g (0.52 oz). This species gets its name from the small pocket glands that are found behind the two pectoral fins on either side. The purpose of this gland suggests that is used to act as a luminous pouch. This species is ovoviviparous, where females have their eggs hatch within their body. There is not more information available.

Habitat:

The pocket shark is a bathypelagic shark found at depths of approximately 330 m (1,083 ft). The first specimen was found off the coast of Chile in the Nazca Submarine Ridge. Another specimen that was then found off the coast of The Gulf of Mexico, suggests that this species is more widely spread than previously thought.

Conservation:

No conservation measures are currently in place for this species. Although population trend is unknown for the Pocket Shark, it is suspected to be stable based on the lack of threats within its range. Therefore, there is nothing to infer or suspect population reduction at this time and the species is assessed as Least Concern.This species is a very small shark with limited catchability in fishing gears. There are no known threats and the only known specimen was captured by a research vessel (Dolganov 1984).This species is not likely to be utilized. Further information is required on this species’ distribution, ecology, and life history.

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Pocket shark Gallery