The Japanese sawshark (Pristiophorus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pristiophoridae that grows up to 140 cm.
Description
The Japanese sawshark is a sawshark (Pristiophoridae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 1.4 metres and has a slender, grey-brown body and a long, flat, sword-shaped snout set with alternating large and small teeth, with a pair of long barbels halfway along it. As a bottom-dweller it sweeps the saw snout through sand and mud bottoms to injure or detect small fish and crustaceans. The toothed snout can give cuts when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese sawshark?
The Japanese sawshark has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Japanese sawshark live?
The Japanese sawshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Japanese sawshark get?
The Japanese sawshark grows to a maximum of about 140 cm.
Is the Japanese sawshark dangerous to humans?
The Japanese sawshark can cause injury; handle it with care.
Is the Japanese sawshark edible?
Yes, the Japanese sawshark is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristiophorus
More from the family Pristiophoridae
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