Fossil shark (Primary Industries & Fisheries, Queensland)

Fossil shark

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Fossil shark
Most fins on the fossil shark have curved rear margins. There is a dark blotch on the second dorsal fin which is distinct on the smaller specimens.
A map showing the distribution of the fossil shark, which is found north of Brisbane on the east coast and north of Geraldton on the west coast
Distribution of the fossil shark.
The snout of the fossil shark is long and bluntly rounded. The lower teeth protrude and the nostril lobes are short and triangular.
The snout is long and bluntly rounded. The lower teeth protrude and the nostril lobes are short and triangular.
Pictures: Jason Stapley
The upper teeth of the fossil shark are laterally curved, broad and oblique with strong serrations on both magins.
The upper teeth are curved, broad and oblique with strong serrations on both margins.

Scientific name

Hemipristis elongata. CAAB code: 37 018011.
Family

Weasel sharks
Other names

Snaggletooth shark.
Frequent misidentifications
  • weasel shark (H. australiensis)
  • hooktooth shark (C. macrostoma - no records in Queensland waters)
Description
  • medium-sized, moderately slender shark
  • long, broadly rounded snout
  • bronze to grey-brown above and pale below
  • a dark blotch on the second dorsal and upper caudal fins; fading in larger specimens
  • distinguished from H. australiensis by distinct hooked, erect lower teeth that protrude from the mouth when closed.
Distribution

Inshore/offshore
Size

45 to 240 cm.
Fisheries

Trawl, gillnet and line fisheries.

Further information

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Page maintained by Cassie France
Last reviewed 02 March 2009

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