How to Identify Banded Houndshark

To identify Banded Houndshark (Triakis scyllium), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically grey to brownish-grey, often with 7-10 distinct dark brown or black saddle-like bands or blotches across the back and sides. The ventral surface is whitish. The banding can fade with age.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Slender body with a moderately long snout, Two dorsal fins of similar size, Anal fin present, Asymmetrical caudal fin with a well-developed lower lobe, Small, pavement-like teeth adapted for crushing, Distinctive dark bands or saddles on the dorsal surface

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins, nearly equal in size. The first dorsal fin originates over the pectoral fin bases, and the second dorsal fin originates over the pelvic fin bases.

Tail fin

Asymmetrical caudal fin with a prominent subterminal notch and a well-developed lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Moderately large and triangular.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is present and smaller than the dorsal fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   Look for the characteristic dark, saddle-like bands or blotches across the greyish-brown dorsal surface. These bands are usually quite distinct, especially in younger individuals.

2. 2

   Fin Structure

   Note the two similarly sized dorsal fins and the presence of an anal fin. The caudal fin is asymmetrical with a clear lower lobe.

3. 3

   Snout Shape

   The snout is moderately long and rounded.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum length of about 1.5 meters (4.9 feet), though most observed individuals are smaller, around 1 meter (3.3 feet).

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