Atlantic Sharpnose Shark

Average size between 80 cm to 100 cm, maximum total length about 120 cm. Long, parabolic snout, with long upper furrows. Nostrils are far apart. Big eyes. Origin of first dorsal fin before or slightly before the free rear ends of the pectoral fins. Origin of second dorsal fin above midbase of anal fin or just in front of its insertion. No spiracles. Grey to grey-brown with white ventral surface. Adults have small light (white) dots on body, white margins on pectoral fins and and dusky dorsal fin tips.

Abundant. Lives over continental shelf, mainly in shallow water (less than 10 m) but has been found down to 280 m. Tolerant to different salinities, and can be found in estuaries and river mouths. During winter months they migrate into deeper waters. Sharpnose sharks can form big schools of same sex and size. Feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and molluscs.

Gives birth to live young (viviparous, with yolksac-placenta). Normally 4 to 6 pups per litter, although can vary from 1 to 7. Pups are born in unprotected nursery grounds. Fast growth, reaching maturity after 3 to 4 years with a size of 65 cm to 80 cm (males) and 85 cm to 90 cm (females). No interruption in female reproduction cycles.

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