Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Chondrichthyes
- Order
- Carcharhiniformes
- Family
- Carcharhinidae
- Genus
- Carcharhinus
- Species
- signatus
Habitat
Night sharks inhabit deep waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, preferring depths between 50 and 600 meters, often over continental and insular slopes. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions, avoiding shallow coastal areas and favoring areas with strong currents. Geographic preferences include the western Atlantic from the United States to Brazil and parts of the eastern Pacific.
Diet
Night sharks primarily feed on small bony fish such as lanternfish and herring, as well as squid and occasionally shrimp. They are nocturnal hunters, using their large eyes to spot prey in low-light conditions, and typically feed at night in midwater depths. Their feeding behavior involves swift, agile pursuits to capture fast-moving prey.
Behavior
Night sharks are primarily solitary and nocturnal, spending daylight hours in deeper waters and becoming more active at night to hunt. They exhibit migratory behavior, moving seasonally to follow prey or warmer waters, and are not known for territorial displays. While generally non-aggressive towards humans, they may investigate bait or fishing gear out of curiosity.
Conservation Status
Listed as Vulnerable by IUCN.