Pacific Sleeper Shark
Somniosus pacificus
- Group: Shark
- Typical depth: 0–2205 m
- Max size: 4.4 m
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: NT
A giant of the cold deep, this sluggish shark can grow past four metres and ranges from the surface in high latitudes down to at least 2,000 metres farther south. Its eyes are often infested by a glowing parasite that trails from each one. Slow and seemingly torpid, it still takes fish, seals and carrion.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Squaliformes › Somniosidae › Somniosus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 271654.
FAQ
- How deep does the Pacific Sleeper Shark live?
- The Pacific Sleeper Shark (Somniosus pacificus) is typically found at 0–2205 m.
- Is the Pacific Sleeper Shark dangerous to divers?
- The Pacific Sleeper Shark is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Pacific Sleeper Shark get?
- The Pacific Sleeper Shark grows to about 4.4 m.