Bluntnose sixgill shark in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Blunt Nose Six Gill Shark (Hexanchus griseus) grows up to 482cm but British specimens are typically half that.
Identification[]
Upper side of the body grey or brown and the under side lighter than the upper side. Six gill slits rather than the normal 5 as found in other shark species.
Breeding[]
Aplacentally viviparous (live bearing). Litter sizes between 22 and 100 pups which are 60cm at birth. Females not mature until attaining the size of 450cm to maximum length of 482cm.
Habitat[]
Mostly a deep water shark, although juveniles have been known to come into shallower waters. Found at depths of 200-1000m. Usually located on the bottom, rarely ventures to the surface.
Food[]
Boney fishes (mainly Cod, Pollack, Haddock, Pout and Hake) as well as other elasmobranchs (sharks, skates and rays). Believed it may also prey on seals.
Range[]
Within UK waters recorded off the coast of Ireland and Scotland
Additional Notes[]
Potential weight in excess of 1000lbs.
References[]
The Aquarium Project