March is only a month away, which means it’s broadnose sevengill shark season! After their winter migration sevengill sharks return to the La Jolla Ecological Reserve during the spring.
The broadnose sevengill shark’s scientific name is Notorynchus cepedianus. Its common name relates to the seven pairs of gill slits, as compared to other sharks which typically have five. The sevengill shark has a short snout and one dorsal fin well back on its body.
This powerful shark’s body is described as “counter-shaded” because its brownish-gray back blends with waters when seen from above and its lighter belly camouflages with the surface waters when seen from below. Although the sevengill shark has the ability to blend in with its surroundings, it still has to be aware of its predators, which include the great white shark and other members of its own species.
When it comes to their prey, however, they are very skilled and feed off a variety of prey, including fish, seals, dolphins, rays, and other sharks. They have huge comb-shaped teeth, which allow them to tear and cut through their prey.
Did you know?
- The sevengill shark can be as long as 10 feet in length and weigh up to 236 pounds!
- The lifespan can exceed 50 years.
- Its mating season is between March and May.
- Their litter size is large; they can have anywhere between 60 to 108 pups.
- With limited vision seven gills are known to get extremely close to divers, but generally do not attack unless provoked – pro tip…never feed wild animals!
- Older sevengill sharks eat the newborns of other shark species.
If you want to experience a large pelagic shark in its preferred habitat, select Trident Divers for your guide services. Our guides know the biology of this animal and how to bring you to the area they want to be in. If you have any questions or if you want to learn more about available training courses. Make online reservations here https://tridentdiver.com/shop/ or call (619) 415-9426
