How to Identify Pajama Catshark

To identify Pajama Catshark (Poroderma africanum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Pale yellowish-brown to greyish-white body with five to seven prominent, dark, longitudinal stripes running from the head to the caudal fin. The underside is typically plain white.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Five to seven prominent dark longitudinal stripes on a pale body., Small, cat-like eyes with nictitating membranes., Nasal barbels present, extending to the mouth., Two dorsal fins, both located far back on the body.

Dorsal fin

Two small, spineless dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin originates behind the pelvic fin origin, and the second dorsal fin is slightly smaller and originates behind the anal fin origin.

Tail fin

Long, low caudal fin with a distinct subterminal notch and a poorly developed lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Moderately large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively large and broadly rounded. Anal fin is present and originates below the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Stripe Pattern

   The most definitive feature is the five to seven dark, longitudinal stripes on a pale background, resembling pajamas.

2. 2

   Nasal Barbels

   Presence of prominent nasal barbels that reach the mouth.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Position

   Both dorsal fins are located far back on the body, with the first dorsal fin originating behind the pelvic fins.

4. 4

   Size

   Typically reaches a maximum length of about 1 meter (3.3 feet).

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