Shark of the Month
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October 2024
Horn Shark
Horn Shark
Heterodontus francisci
Quick Facts:
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Ranging from 95 to 200 N, the Horn shark have the most powerful bite force relative to size our of any sharks (Huber et al., 2005).
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Adult horn sharks can eat the short spined purple urchin. As a result, their teeth and fins can be stained purple (Ebert, 2003).​
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They are named the Horn Shark because of the venomous spines located in front of each dorsal fin, which it uses for protection.
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According to the National Aquarium, horn sharks "reproduce by depositing a unique spiral-shaped egg casing, which they wedge between rocks".
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The scientific name "Heterodontus" derives from the Greek term meaning "different teeth." The teeth at the front of the mouth are short and pointed, while the teeth on the sides are large and flat, resembling molars. These molar-like teeth are specifically adapted for crushing.
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Horn sharks belong to the Bullhead shark family (Heterodontidae).
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These sharks spend most of their time in shallow water, around 12.2 meters.
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Although Horn shark populations are not commercially hunted, they have been declining mainly due to being caught as bycatch.
Location: Warm-temperate and subtropical regions of the eastern Pacific Ocean such as the Gulf of California (Compagno, 2001).
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Length: 1.2 m (4 ft).
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Age span: Between 25 to 50 years.
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Weight: 9 kg (20 lbs).
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Conservation Status: "Data Deficient” by IUCN.
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Diet: Mollusks, echinoderms, and crustaceans.
Take a look at the following links for more information about the Horn Shark:
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Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras of California​
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Blue Reef Aquarium
Monterey Bay Aquarium