Bullhead Shark (Galapagos)

  • Galapagos Wildlife: Galapagos Bullhead shark © Paul Humann

    Galapagos Bullhead shark © Paul Humann

  • Galapagos Wildlife: Galapagos Bullhead shark from above ©Lucy Rickards

    Galapagos Bullhead shark from above ©Lucy Rickards

  • Galapagos Wildlife: Galapagos Bullhead shark © sharksider.com

    Galapagos Bullhead shark © sharksider.com

Species Data

Common Name Galapagos bullhead shark
Scientific Name Heterodontus quoyi
Spanish Name Tiburón gato de Galapagos
Conservation Status

Galapagos Graphics: IUCN Red List Unknown © Dan Wright

Unknown

Endemic/Native/Introduced

Native

Size Up to 1.07 m
Average Lifespan Unknown
Predators Tiger Sharks
Food Shellfish, crabs and other small invertebrates (carnivores)
Animal Class Chondricthyes

Species Overview

The Galapagos Bullhead shark is a nocturnal species of shark that are found in inshore sandy and rocky areas as well as Coral reefs. As the Genus name suggests the shark has two types of teeth, small sharp curved teeth at the front for grabbing prey and flat side teeth that are good for cracking and grinding hard shells. Its relatively large pectoral fins allow it to crawl along the seabed and the two dorsal fins have a sharp spine that helps deter predators. The eggs they lay are surrounded by a tough, leathery spiral shaped form, which allows them to be wedged between rocks to protect them from predators. When born they are around 17cm long and only reach sexual maturity when they are three times that length.

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