Description
The deepsea cat shark has a broad snout with 8 or 9
rows of pores along the ventral surface. The two dorsal fins are virtually equal
in size. The first dorsal fin is set far back on the body and originates over
the middle of the pelvic fin. It is dark gray, brown or black on its whole body,
which can be 50 cm (20 in) in length. The teeth are tricuspid and smooth edged,
the central cusp being long and sharp surrounded by the two smaller cusps.
Range
The limits of its Canadian distribution are unknown
although deep-sea trawling captures are not uncommon.
Habitat
The two Canadian reports of this shark have been at
depths of 660 meters (2,200 feet) or more. Not much is known other than the fact
that it is a deep dwelling species.
Life History
This shark is a deep dwelling fish and not much is
known about its basic biology. Average size is about 50 cm (20 in).
Diet
The diet of this shark is unknown.
Reproduction
Nothing is known about the reproduction of this shark.
Interaction with People
Since this is a deep dwelling species it usually has
no interactions with humans except when accidentally caught while deep-sea
fishing.
Distinguishing Characteristics