Catshark that looks lifeless endemic around New Zealand

The Flaccid catshark (Apristurus exsanguis) is a shark belonging to the family Scyliorhinidae. It is endemic to the waters and surrounding islands around New Zealand. They are pale grey to pale brown flaccid in color. They may be found deeper than their known range.


Family: Scyliorhinidae – Catsharks

Genus: Apristurus 

Species: exsanguis


Phylum– Chordata

Class– Chondrichthyles


Common NameGround Sharks

Family– Scyliorhinidae

Common NameCatsharks




Average Size and Length: Mature male and female sharks have been measured between 65-70 cm/2.1-2.3 feet. The maximum recorded has been measured at 91 cm/3 feet.

Teeth and Jaw: The mouth is long and arched. The labial furrows are very long. The uppers reach the upper symphysis and the lowers are shorter than the uppers. The teeth are sharp, jagged like burs.

Head: The head is broad and flattened. The snout is moderately elongated. The nostrils are large. The mouth extends slightly in front of the eyes.

Tail: The caudal fin is elongated.

Demographic, Distribution, Habitat, Environment and Range: The Flaccid catshark can be found widespread around New Zealand around surrounding ridges and islands including Chatham, Stewart, and Campbell Islands. They can be found over insular slopes between 1,880-3,937 feet.

Aesthetic Identification: The Flaccid catshark has a body that is pale grey to pale brown flaccid in color. Flaccid meaning seemingly bloodless. The dorsal fins are similar in size. The base of the first dorsal fin is over the rear of the pelvic fin bases. There is a very long and low elongated anal fin. The anal fin is separated from the tail fin by a small notch.

Biology and Reproduction: Little is known about their biology and reproduction. They are oviparous. They lay eggs in large, grooved capsules or egg cases with long tendrils.

Behavioral Traits, Sensing and Intelligence: Unknown.

Flaccid Catshark Future and Conservation: They are currently of least concern. They have been regularly taken by research trawls below 3,937 feet on the Chatham Rise.

Flaccid Catshark Recorded Attacks on Humans: Not a threat to humans.