How to Identify Coral catshark

To identify Coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically light brown to greyish-brown, heavily mottled with dark brown to black spots, blotches, and saddles. These markings often form a reticulated or marbled pattern, providing excellent camouflage. The underside is pale white to yellowish.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Slender, cylindrical body, Small, cat-like eyes with nictitating membranes, Two dorsal fins of similar size, set far back on the body, Distinctive mottled and spotted coloration, Nasal barbels present

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins, nearly equal in size, located far posterior on the body. The first dorsal fin originates over the posterior half of the pelvic fin bases. The second dorsal fin is slightly smaller than the first.

Tail fin

Long, low caudal fin with a distinct subterminal notch and no ventral lobe.

Pectoral fin

Moderately large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small. Anal fin is absent.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body coloration and pattern

   Look for the distinctive marbled or reticulated pattern of dark spots and blotches on a lighter brown or grey background. This is the most reliable visual identifier.

2. 2

   Body shape

   Its slender, elongated body is characteristic of catsharks.

3. 3

   Dorsal fin position

   Note the two dorsal fins are positioned far back on the body, with the first dorsal originating over the pelvic fins.

4. 4

   Nasal barbels

   Presence of small, fleshy barbels near the nostrils.

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