Swellsharks (Cephaloscyllium)
General data
- Main name: Swellsharks
Classification
- Family: Scyliorhinidae - Cat sharks
- Order: Carcharhiniformes - Ground sharks
- Class: Elasmobranchii - Sharks and Rays
- Superclass: Chondrichthyes - Cartilaginous fishes
Description
Cephaloscyllium is a genus of catsharks, and part of the family Scyliorhinidae, commonly known as swellsharks because of their ability to inflate their bodies with water or air as a defense against predators. These sluggish, bottom-dwelling sharks are found widely in the tropical and temperate coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They have stocky, spindle-shaped bodies and short, broad, and flattened heads. The mouth is capacious, containing many small teeth and lacking furrows at the corners. The two dorsal fins are placed far back on the body, with the first much larger than the second. Different species have various color patterns of saddles, blotches, reticulations, and/or spots. The largest members of the genus can grow over 1 m (3.3 ft) in length. Swellsharks prey on a variety of fishes and invertebrates, and are oviparous, with females producing egg capsules in pairs. They are harmless and have been deemed of having no commercial value. There are currently 17 recognized species in this genus.