Fin's Fish Guide
The False catshark (Pseudotriakis microdon) is a saltwater fish of the family Pseudotriakidae that grows up to 269 cm.
Worldwide, but rare everywhere, along continental slopes and seamounts in the deep sea, including the eastern Atlantic.
Description
The false catshark is a large, flabby deep-sea shark of the family Pseudotriakidae reaching about 2.7 metres. Characteristic is the strikingly long, low first dorsal fin, running like a crest along much of the back; the mouth is set with numerous small teeth. The brown-black body is soft and the muscles flabby, fitting a slow swimmer that saves energy in the food-poor deep sea. The species occurs worldwide but is everywhere rare, along continental slopes and seamounts, including the eastern Atlantic around the British and Macaronesian islands, usually between two hundred and nearly two thousand metres. It eats deep-sea fish, squid, crustaceans and carrion. Reproduction is ovoviviparous with very small litters, the embryos feeding on yolk.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the False catshark?
The False catshark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, flabby deep-sea shark with a strikingly long, low first dorsal fin like a comb and numerous small teeth; a slow swimmer.
Where does the False catshark live?
The False catshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Worldwide, but rare everywhere, along continental slopes and seamounts in the deep sea, including the eastern Atlantic.
How big does the False catshark get?
The False catshark grows to a maximum of about 269 cm.
Is the False catshark dangerous to humans?
No, the False catshark is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the False catshark edible?
The False catshark is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Pseudotriakidae
Want the complete picture on the False catshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the False catshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.