Lamniformes

Crocodile Shark

Pseudocarcharias kamoharai

Back to species

Max Length

1.1m

Litter Size

4 pups

Overview

The smallest lamniform shark. A deep-water oceanic species with disproportionately large eyes and needle-like teeth for catching squid and small fish. Named for its snapping, crocodile-like biting behavior when caught.

Habitat

Usually well offshore, from the surface to at least 1935.7 ft [590 m] deep.

Distribution

Tropical & subtropical seas worldwide

World-wide in oceanic tropical waters.

Behavior

Probably strong and active swimmers. They may migrate vertically to the surface at night, and deeper into the water by day.

Biology

Reproduction: Ovoviviparous and there are usually 4 pups to a litter

Appearance

Dorsal: Grey or grey-brown on their backs, and lighter on their undersides. Their fins are also light-edged.

Dentition

Upper jaw: Prominent long, slender teeth on a highly protrusible jaw.

Sources:sharksorg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the crocodile shark dangerous to humans?

The crocodile shark is not considered dangerous to humans under normal conditions. There are few or no recorded incidents involving this species.

Where does this species data come from?

Species profiles are compiled from peer-reviewed taxonomy and published references. Incident data is sourced from the Global Shark Attack File and joined to species records by name match.

Back to species

Lamniformes

Crocodile Shark

Pseudocarcharias kamoharai

Back to species

Max Length

1.1m

Litter Size

4 pups

Overview

Habitat

Usually well offshore, from the surface to at least 1935.7 ft [590 m] deep.

Distribution

Tropical & subtropical seas worldwide

World-wide in oceanic tropical waters.

Behavior

Probably strong and active swimmers. They may migrate vertically to the surface at night, and deeper into the water by day.

Biology

Reproduction: Ovoviviparous and there are usually 4 pups to a litter

Appearance

Dorsal: Grey or grey-brown on their backs, and lighter on their undersides. Their fins are also light-edged.

Dentition

Upper jaw: Prominent long, slender teeth on a highly protrusible jaw.

Sources:sharksorg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the crocodile shark dangerous to humans?

The crocodile shark is not considered dangerous to humans under normal conditions. There are few or no recorded incidents involving this species.

Where does this species data come from?

Species profiles are compiled from peer-reviewed taxonomy and published references. Incident data is sourced from the Global Shark Attack File and joined to species records by name match.

Back to species