Fin's Fish Guide
The Tope shark (Galeorhinus galeus) is a saltwater fish of the family Triakidae that grows up to 193 cm.
Worldwide in cool to warm-temperate waters (70°N-58°S), including the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The tope shark or soupfin shark is a slender shark of the family Triakidae reaching about 195 cm. The body is greyish above and white below, with juveniles showing black markings on the fins. The large mouth carries small, blade-like teeth, and the lower lobe of the tail is almost as long as the rest of the caudal fin. The species occurs worldwide in cool to warm-temperate waters and is highly migratory, forming schools that are sometimes segregated by size and sex. It is ovoviviparous with 6 to 52 pups per litter. Because of heavy fishing and slow reproduction the tope is assessed as Critically Endangered; its flesh is regularly eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tope shark?
The Tope shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, highly migratory shark with a large mouth and small, blade-shaped teeth; the lower lobe of the tail is almost as long as the rest of the caudal fin.
Where does the Tope shark live?
The Tope shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Worldwide in cool to warm-temperate waters (70°N-58°S), including the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Tope shark get?
The Tope shark grows to a maximum of about 193 cm. On average the species is around 160 cm.
Is the Tope shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Tope shark is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tope shark edible?
Yes, the Tope shark is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Tope shark and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Triakidae
Want the complete picture on the Tope shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tope shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone