Sombre Catshark

About the Sombre Catshark

The Sombre Catshark is a species of ground shark found in northwestern Australia. 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.

Their reproductive method and average litter size are unknown. The maximum length is also unknown as the species was described from a single specimen, which was an immature male measuring 45 cm.

There is not enough confirmation to assess their population health. Their conservation status is “Data Deficient.”

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Scientific Name Bythaelurus incanus
OrderGround Sharks - Carcharhiniformes
GenusBythaelurus
CitesNot Listed
IUCNData Deficient
ReproductionOvoviviparous
SizeSmall
Litter Size Unknown
Common Length 45.4 cm
Max LenghtNA
Depth Range 900 - 1000 m
DistributionEastern Indian Ocean
EnvironmentBathydemersal