Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Chondrichthyes
- Order
- Myliobatiformes
- Family
- Hexanchidae
- Genus
- Heptranchias
- Species
- perlo
Habitat
This species inhabits continental and insular slopes in deep waters, typically from 50 to 1,000 meters deep, preferring temperate and tropical regions. It is often found over muddy or sandy bottoms in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, avoiding shallow coastal areas.
Diet
The sharpnose sevengill shark primarily feeds on bony fish, squid, and smaller sharks, using its sharp teeth to capture prey. It is a nocturnal hunter, actively foraging at night in deeper waters, and may also scavenge on dead animals.
Behavior
Sharpnose sevengill sharks are mostly solitary and benthic, spending time near the ocean floor during the day and becoming more active at night. They exhibit minimal territorial behavior but can be aggressive when feeding. This species is known for its swift, darting movements when pursuing prey.
Conservation Status
Listed as Near Threatened by IUCN.