Sarawak Pygmy Swellshark

About the Sarawak Pygmy Swellshark

Sarawak pygmy swellshark can be found off the coast of China and Malaysia in the Northwest Pacific Ocean and the Western Central Pacific Ocean at depths between 118 to 165 m.

Biology and Behaviour

Adult Sarawak pygmy swellsharks have two wide brown saddle blotches before its first dorsal fin, while young swellsharks have three and spots along its body and fins. 

They are rarely taken as bycatch, and are only known from a few caught specimens. The maximum length this species can reach is 40.8 cm long. Males mature between 32.5 to 37.2 cm long, while females mature at 35.4 to 40.8 cm long. 

Like other swellsharks, balloon sharks can inflate its stomach with water or air as a defence mechanism against predators.

Reproduction and Lifespan

The biology of the sarawak pygmy swellshark is almost unknown. They are oviparous and young sarawak pygmy swellsharks are about 10 cm long at birth.

Conservation and Tourism

The IUCN lists Sarawak pygmy swellsharks as data deficient as more research about this species is required. 

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