Dwarf Pygmy Shark [Squaliolus aliae]
Description
The Dwarf Pygmy Shark is one of the smallest species of sharks, typically measuring up to 22 cm (8.7 in) in length. Its body is dark and slender, with large eyes and a short, rounded snout. Like its close relative, it has a spine in front of both of its two dorsal fins. This species is found in the western Pacific Ocean, and possibly the eastern Indian Ocean. It inhabits the mesopelagic zone and preys on small fishes and squid.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Cartilaginous Fish
Chondrichthyes
|
| Order |
Dogfish Sharks
Squaliformes
|
| Family |
Kitefin Sharks
Dalatiidae
|
| Genus |
Squaliolus
Squaliolus
|