False Catshark

Lower lobe of caudal fin hardly developed, its upper edge not rippled and a subterminal notch present (Ref. 13565). Uniformly dark brownish-grey, darker on posterior edges of pelvic, dorsal, anal and caudal fins (Ref. 13565).

Exhibit ovoviparity (aplacental viviparity), embryos feed on yolk and ova, also consume uterine milk (Ref. 50449) with 2-4 young in a litter (Ref. 13565; Ref.58048). Size at birth between 70 and 85 cm (Ref. 26346 reports it at about 140 cm TL). Distinct pairing with embrace (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 0; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 0

Occurs on the continental slope (Ref. 75154).

Found on the continental and insular slopes, occasionally wandering onto continental shelves (Ref. 13565). Inactive and sluggish (Ref. 13565). Probably eats bony fishes, elasmobranchs and invertebrates (Ref. 244). Ovoviviparous, embryos feeding on yolk sac and other ova produced by the mother, uterine milk is consumed additionally (Ref. 50449). Pups number 2 to 4 in a litter (Ref. 244), size at birth between 70 (Ref. 244) and 140 cm TL (Ref. 13565). Caught very rarely by deepwater demersal longline fisheries in some areas. Utilized for its fins (limited value), meat and cartilage (Ref.58048).

fisheries: subsistence fisheries