The Elliot's grey shark (Hemipristis elongata) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemigaleidae that grows up to 240 cm.
Description
The snaggletooth shark is a large coastal shark from the Indo-West Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea and southeast Africa through the Persian Gulf to the Philippines, China and Australia. It can grow to about 2.6 metres and has a slender, light grey to bronze body with a long, broadly rounded snout. Distinctive are the large, curved, saw-edged upper teeth and hooked lower teeth protruding from the mouth. It lives in shallow coastal water to about 130 metres depth and hunts sharks, rays, bony fish and squid. The species is viviparous. Because of heavy fishing it is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List; it is regarded as potentially dangerous, although no attacks are recorded.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elliot's grey shark?
The Elliot's grey shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Elliot's grey shark live?
The Elliot's grey shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Elliot's grey shark get?
The Elliot's grey shark grows to a maximum of about 240 cm. On average the species is around 200 cm.
Is the Elliot's grey shark dangerous to humans?
The Elliot's grey shark can cause injury; handle it with care.
Is the Elliot's grey shark edible?
Yes, the Elliot's grey shark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Hemigaleidae
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