Longnose Sawshark and Similar Species
Pristiophorus cirratus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Longnose Sawshark. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Shortnose Sawshark
Pristiophorus nudipinnis
Key differences: The Shortnose Sawshark has a noticeably shorter rostrum (22-24% of total length) and lacks the prominent rostral barbels found in the Longnose Sawshark. Its rostral denticles are also more uniform in size.
Tropical Sawshark
Pristiophorus delicatus
Key differences: The Tropical Sawshark has a relatively shorter and narrower rostrum compared to the Longnose Sawshark, and its barbels are positioned closer to the nostrils than to the tip of the rostrum. It also has a more northern distribution.
Sixgill Sawshark
Pliotrema kajae (formerly P. warreni)
Key differences: The Sixgill Sawshark is easily distinguished by having six pairs of gill slits, whereas Pristiophorus cirratus has five. Its barbels are also positioned closer to the mouth.
Common Sawfish
Pristis pristis (and other Pristis species)
Key differences: Sawfishes (family Pristidae) are rays, not sharks. They have gill slits on their ventral surface, a much larger, broader, and more robust saw, and lack barbels on the rostrum. Their body shape is also much flatter and ray-like.
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