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Range:
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark inhabits the western Atlantic from New
Brunswick, Canada south to the Gulf of Mexico and along the coast of
Brazil. They prefer subtropical waters near the continental shelf
from the intertidal zone to waters reaching depths of up to 920ft
(280m). The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark typically spends its time near
the surf zone of sandy beaches and in enclosed bays, sounds, and
harbors. Because of their ability to tolerate low salinity levels,
they can also be found in estuaries and at the mouth of rivers.
Similar Species: The white spotting and size of the
Atlantic Sharpnose distinguish it from most other species of sharks
in Volusia County waters. However, the Spiny Dogfish (Squalus
acanthias), which is similar in appearance to the Atlantic Sharpnose,
also has white spots and occasionally enters Volusia waters during
the winter months as it follows the cold water moving south from the
north. The Spiny Dogfish can be distinguished by the strong dorsal
spines in front of each dorsal fin.
Identification: The Atlantic Sharpnose shark has a long,
streamlined body that is gray in color as well as a
characteristically long, pointed snout. In most sharks, the anal fin
and second dorsal fin are lined up, one directly above the above the
other. However, in the Atlantic Sharpnose shark the anal fin is
slightly in front of the second dorsal fin. This species of shark is
considered to be a small coastal shark, reaching a maximum length of
about 3.5 ft (1m).
Note: The Atlantic Sharpnose shark gives live birth to
1-7 pups per litter. At birth, pups are 11-14in (29-37cm) in length
and will grow at a rate of 2 inches (5cm) a month for the first 3
months. Growth rate then slows to an average of .1 inches (.35 cm) a
month. This species is considered non-harmful to humans and
typically feeds on small bony fishes, shrimps, crabs, segmented
worms, mollusks, and gastropods.
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