Beaked Shark

Overview

This oceanic predator which hunts at night along the warm ocean currents near coral reefs. They have been known to chase or follow fishing vessels presumably stealing helpless fish from nets or lines.

Common Names

Beaked Shark, Prelteijar Lumpei (Waejir)

Description

Classification

Fish

Size

<number> kg (<--number--> pounds), 1-2 metres ( feet/inches)

Appearance

Unlike most sharks these creatures lack the impressive gaping jaws, instead they have a rounded beak shaped structure still rowed with serrated edged teeth. This allows them to nab prey which may attempt to elude them by hiding in holes and crevasses within the reefs.

Sexual dimorphism

Females tend to be larger than males by about 50% length and weight for sharks of equal age.

Variance

A few sub-species exist differing mostly in beak or fin shape, and colouration.

Ecology

Habitat

Tropical to Temperate Saltwater, Reefs and shoals.

Diet

Fish, Crustaceans, Sea Birds

Behaviour

Social grouping

Schools of up to fifty animals have been reported.

Temperament

Generally neutral unless hungry.

Intelligence

Animal

Reproduction

Females will live birth up to six pups in midsummer. Once birthed the pups are left to fend for themselves.

Domestication

General

None.

Resources

Meat, Urea, and Sharkskin