White-clasper Catshark

About the White-clasper Catshark

The white-clasper catshark is a species of ground shark found in only northern New Caledonia at depths of 688–732m (2,257–2,402 ft). Like all members of the catshark family, they’re bottom feeders, have elongated cat-like eyes, and two small dorsal fins set far back. They’re mostly nocturnal and often sleep in groups during the day.

They’re presumed to be oviparous but very little is known about their biology. The species was described from a single specimen, an adult male measuring 41.5cm/1.36 ft. 

There is no offshore trawling or deepsea longlining where the species occurs, and as such no threats are evident at this time. It is therefore assessed as Least Concern.

There are no conservation measures in place for this species. The species may receive some protection in New Caledonia’s Le Parc Naturel de la Mer de Corail, a multi-use Marine Protected Area covering the entire Exclusive Economic Zone. Research is needed on the species’ full range and occurrence.

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