Scientific Name
Pseudocarcharias kamoharai
Common Name
Crocodile shark
Biology
An oceanic species usually found offshore and far from land but sometimes occurring inshore. Epi- and mesopelagic, with occasional near-bottom occurrences. Although considered not dangerous to people, its powerful jaws, jaw muscles and teeth invite respect. Flesh not appreciated and therefore the catch is usually discarded ; utilized for its large, squalene-rich liver. Feeds on small pelagic bony fishes, squids and shrimps. Ovoviviparous, embryos feeding on yolk sac and other ova produced by the mother. With 4 young in a litter, born at 40 to 43 cm TL. Maximum length for female given in Romanove et.al 1994. Common bycatch of tuna longline fisheries, and occasionally tuna gillnet fisheries.