 The leopard catshark ( Poroderma pantherinum ) is a species of catshark , and part of the family Scyliorhinidae , endemic to the coastal waters of South Africa . Abundant in inshore waters under 20 m ( 66 ft ) deep , this bottom @-@ dweller favors rocky reefs , kelp beds , and sandy flats . Growing to a length of 84 cm ( 33 in ) , the leopard catshark has a stout body with two dorsal fins placed well back , and a short head and tail . It is extremely variable in color and pattern , with individuals ranging from almost white to black and covered by diverse patterns of black spots , blotches , rosettes , and / or lines . The color pattern changes with age and some forms seem to be location @-@ specific , suggesting the presence of multiple distinct , local populations . In the past , some of the more distinct color forms have been described as different species . 
