Today's fish of the day is the collared carpet shark!
The collared carpet shark, also known by scientific name Parascyllium collar is the best known shark in genus Parascyllium.The name is derived from para an old greek word meaning dog shark or small shark, and collare, a latin word for iron band or neck chain. These sharks are in the carpet shark family, which are known for their often bottom dwelling ways, spiracles (a kind of respiratory opening) behind the eyes. The family of Parascylliidae, which genus Parascyllium makes up one half of, is defined by their small size and barbels (a whisker-like appendage) behind the chin.Collared carpet sharks in particular are found around the Southwestern Pacific, specifically focuses on the continental shelf of Eastern Australia. Found from a range of 26°S through 38°S, and 149°E to 154°E, these sharks live in temperate to subtropical zones. Their habitat is best known as reef like zones, which their bodies are adapted towards, but can comfortably spend time in sandy bottomed areas as well.
Collared carpet sharks are long and elongated, which helps them in the rocky crevices they live around. Along with fins and a tail that are proficient from balancing and navigating the uneven seabed. These fish are covered in spots, which blend them into both rocky and sandy areas. With a nocturnal lifestyle, the collared carpet shark is known for sneaking up on prey, and lunging at them. They have a diet made of fish and invertebrates, with specially shaped mouths and teeth that are made for hunting prey that hides in and around rocky fissures.
These sharks are relatively unknown when it comes to reproduction and lifecycle, with an unknown life span and maturity age. Collared carpet sharks live solitary lives, and we know little to nothing about any mating season, preference, or time span. Similar to many other carpet sharks, the collared carpet shark is oviparous, meaning that the shark is fertilized and the egg is laid before hatching. These eggs are attached to seaweed, or other vegetation before being abandoned by the parents, leaving young to fend for themselves once they hatch. This is all currently known information about the shark, and they are threatened by fishing bycatch, water pollution, and coral bleaching caused by rising temperatures and stress.
That's the collared carpet shark everybody! I hope you enjoyed learning about them, and have a wonderful day!
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