Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic weasel shark (Paragaleus pectoralis) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemigaleidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa (Mauritania to Namibia), in shallow coastal water and above the continental shelf to about 100 metres deep.
Description
The Atlantic weasel shark is a slender coastal shark of the family Hemigaleidae (weasel sharks) reaching about 1.4 metres. The grey, streamlined body has large eyes, a fairly pointed snout and several yellowish lengthwise stripes along the flank. The species lives in shallow coastal water and over the continental shelf along the West African coast, from Mauritania to Namibia. Unlike many sharks it is highly specialised on cephalopods: it hunts mainly squid and octopus, supplemented with small fish. It is viviparous, with a small litter of young. Because it is taken as bycatch and traded as dried-salted or smoked meat, it has declined sharply and is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic weasel shark?
The Atlantic weasel shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender coastal shark with large eyes, a pointed snout and a few yellowish longitudinal stripes on the grey flank.
Where does the Atlantic weasel shark live?
The Atlantic weasel shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa (Mauritania to Namibia), in shallow coastal water and above the continental shelf to about 100 metres deep.
How big does the Atlantic weasel shark get?
The Atlantic weasel shark grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Atlantic weasel shark dangerous to humans?
The Atlantic weasel shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Not venomous, but a predatory shark with sharp teeth: keep your distance from a hooked or landed shark and handle only with proper equipment.
Is the Atlantic weasel shark edible?
Yes, the Atlantic weasel shark is commonly eaten.
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More from the family Hemigaleidae
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