Latin name

Hemitriakis leucoperiptera

Other names

Hemitriakis leucoperiptera

Identification

They have a rather elongated muzzle with a wide arched mouth. The body is "humped", stocky. The eyes are oval, horizontally elongated and have a lower third eyelid. There is a prominent ridge under the eyes. The nostrils are framed by short skin folds. The number of vertebrae is 133-146.

Teeth

Flattened teeth have a protruding central point and small distal teeth.

Features of fish fins

The first dorsal fin is longer than the second, but considerably shorter than the caudal fin. Its base is posterior to the base of the pectoral fins. The base of the second dorsal fin is in front of the base of the anal fin. The anal fin is smaller than either dorsal fin. There is a ventral notch near the edge of the upper lobe of the caudal fin. The caudal fin is almost horizontal. 

Fish colouring

The upper side of the body is grey with a brown tinge, the underside is pale. There is no dark band on the underside of the snout. Juveniles have dark patches on the caudal fins. 

Distribution

Endemic to the western Pacific. 

Habitat

Marine, bottom dwelling, tropical species. They live off the coast of the Philippines at depths of up to 48m.

Size

Maximum fixed length 96 cm.

Behavior

The species was discovered and described long ago, but much remains unknown about its lifestyle and behaviour. 

Food and feeding habits

Coastal predator.

Reproduction

There are 12 cubs in a litter, with a minimum size of 20-22 cm at birth. Probably reproduces by placenta-free live birth. Embryos feed exclusively on egg yolk.  

Fishing

Occasionally found in the catches of Philippine fishermen.

Relationship with a person

They are not dangerous to humans. Local people eat the meat of these sharks as food.