Also known as dusky smooth-hound.
- Grayish-brown color on top, fading to lighter below
- Small, slender shark with two spineless dorsal fins, the second slightly smaller than the first
- Spiracles present
- Caudal fin lower lobe rounded and much shorter than upper lobe
- Upper lobe of caudal fin with deep notch at end
- Interdorsal ridge present
Similar Species: Narrowfin smoothhound, M. norrisi (lower caudal fin with sharply pointed lobe); Gulf smoothhound, M. sinusmexicanus (longer labial furrows); Spiny dogfish, S. acanthias (lacks anal fin and has one spine in front of each dorsal fin)
Habitat & Range
Primarily a demersal shark, commonly found in shallow bays, continental shelves, and near offshore banks. Occasionally found in freshwater; although, it’s unlikely they can survive for extended periods of time in low salinities. Known to migrate seasonally into colder waters during spring and move into warmer waters in the fall.
Life History
Mating occurs early to mid-summer and after approximately 10-11 months of gestation, females give birth to live young in shallow bays and estuaries. Broods range from 4-20. Size at birth about 13-15 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
Maximum length 5 feet. Females mature at approximately 4-5 years and males reach maturity at 2-3 years (around 2-3 feet for both sexes) and are estimated to live up to 16+ years.
