ANIMAL SPECIES:Blind Shark, Brachaelurus waddi (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
The common name of this species arose from its behaviour of closing its eyes when landed by anglers. The Blind Shark lives in shallow coastal waters and feeds at night on invertebrates and small fishes.
Identification
The Blind Shark has a slightly flattened head, small eyes and a nasal barbel projecting from both nostrils. It has two dorsal fins that are close together and located well back on the body. The small anal fin is located just before the long caudal fin.
The species is brown to black on top and yellowish below. It often has light spots and about eleven dark saddles across the back.
Size range
It grows to 1.2 m in length.Distribution
It occurs from southern Queensland to southern New South Wales.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Blind Shark specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
The Blind Shark lives in shallow coastal waters. Juveniles are often seen in high-energy surge zones, whereas adults are usually seen during the day in caves and under ledges. It occurs in depths ranging from the intertidal zone down to 140 m.
Behaviour and adaptations
Feeding and Diet
It feeds at night on invertebrates and small fishes.
Living with us
Danger to humans and first aid
It is a harmless species.
Classification
- Species:
- waddi
- Genus:
- Brachaelurus
- Family:
- Brachaeluridae
- Order:
- Orectolobiformes
- Class:
- Chondrichthyes
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
References
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1993. Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Crawford House Press. Pp. 437.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
- Last, P.R. & J.D. Stevens. 1994 Sharks and Rays of Australia. CSIRO. Pp. 513.
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A Blind Shark in Nelson Bay View full size
David & Leanne Atkinson
© David & Leanne Atkinson
Head of a Blind Shark at Nelson Bay View full size
Ákos Lumnitzer
© Ákos Lumnitzer
Blind Shark found dead near Shelly Beach View full size
Gaétan Guilhon
© Gaétan Guilhon
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