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Galapagos Bullhead Shark
Threat Level: Low
The Galapagos Bullhead Shark is also known as Horn Shark.
- GALAPAGOS BULLHEAD
SHARK
Scientific Name.... Heterodontus Quoyi
Family Name...... Hetrodontidae
- General Information: It has been suggested that there may be more than one species included under ( Heterodontus Quoyi ), but there has been little research done to confirm this. The supraorbital ridges of this species are low, dorsal fins with spines, the first dorsal origin is behind the pectoral fin base. Anal fin present. They are a very docile non-aggressive shark with little research done on this species.
- Size: The galapagos bullhead shark grows to a maximum length of 22.5 inches.
- Teeth: The anterior teeth have a cusp and a pair of cusplets in adults, posterior molariform teeth are strongly ridged, but not greatly expanded and rounded.
- Color: Background color of the dorsal surface is light gray or brown with large black spots greater than half eye diameter, no dark harness pattern; the head is without a light-coloured bar on interorbital surface and with mottled dark spots or blotches under the eyes. The fins are without abrupt dark tips and white dorsal-fin apices; hatchlings without whorls on fins and body and similar in coloration to adults.
- Feeding Habits: Galapagos bullhead sharks are nocturnal, feeds on crabs, shellfish, and small invertebrates.
- Social Behaviour: This species is usually observed singly.
- Habitat | Migration | Distribution: They are found in Peru ( including offshore islands ) and the Galapagos Islands. Inhabits sand flat and rocky, boulder strewn reef areas, with sand between outcroppings in inshore continental and insular waters. Rests motionless on the bottom.
- Life Span: Unknown.
- Reproduction: Galapagos bullhead sharks are oviparous.
- Swimming: They are known to be a poor swimmer.
- Galapagos Bullhead Shark Attacks: Harmless , not aggressive
- Population Report: Unknown.