Small-dorsal Catshark

About the Small-dorsal Catshark

The Small Dorsal Catshark is a species of ground shark found in the South China Sea. Like all members of the catshark shark family, they’re bottom feeders, have elongated cat-like eyes, and two small dorsal fins set far back. They’re mostly nocturnal. They often sleep in groups during the day, and do their hunting at night.

They’re oviparous, meaning they lay eggs, but the average litter size is unknown. They grow to a maximum length of 37cm/1 ft 2.6 in.

Their name comes from the unusually small dorsal fin of the only specimen ever examined (the holotype). It is possible that the dorsal fin on this particular shark was malformed and that the species will be reviewed if more specimens are found.

The species is only known from one specimen caught on a research survey and is unlikely to be captured by any fisheries; it has not been recorded from longline fisheries and the Chinese commercial trawlers in the area only operate to a depth of 300 m/984.3 ft. There is nothing to infer or suspect population reduction at this time and the Smalldorsal Catshark is assessed as Least Concern.

Threats 

There is no specific information available on bycatch of this species. The Smalldorsal Catshark is possibly taken by longline, although it has never been reported from longlines and it is unlikely to be taken by commercial trawl, as most commercial bottom trawls in China operate to a maximum depth of 300 m/984.3 ft (X. Chen unpubl. data 2019). It has only been caught by a research survey to date suggesting interaction with commercial fisheries is limited, and it has refuge at depth from any possible fishing pressure.

No information is available on use and trade; it is likely too small for human consumption but if retained may be used for fish meal. No specific measures are in place. Research is required to better define the species’ distribution, habitat, and life history, and population size and trend, and catch rates should be monitored, particularly if fisheries expand to greater depths in the region.

Do you have images or videos of Small-dorsal Catsharks?
Submit them to [email protected].