Overview
Goblin sharks (Mitsukurina owstoni) are a distinct species of shark belonging to the Mitsukurinidae family. They are characterized by their elongated, flattened snout, which resembles a goblin's nose, and their protruding, sharp jaws. Their bodies are pinkish grey, with a distinctive, fleshy appendage extending from their lower jaw. Unlike other deep-sea sharks, goblin sharks have a unique, protruding jaw structure that allows them to quickly extend their jaws to capture prey. Their skin is covered in small, rough scales, and they have large, forward-facing eyes.
Commonly found in:
- Japan
- Portugal
- Taiwan
- South Africa
- France
- Spain
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United States
- Mexico
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Uruguay
- Namibia
Size and Weight
- Size: Males average 10-13 feet when mature, females 11-13 feet
- Weight: Males typically 330-460 pounds, females 440-660 pounds
- Swimming speed: 1-3 mph
Interaction with Humans
- Interaction with Humans: Extremely rare; very few human encounters documented
- Avoidance: Stay in shallower waters; they typically inhabit deep ocean environments
- Activity: Primarily active during the day
Lifespan and Diet
- Lifespan: Estimated 30-50 years for both sexes
- Diet: Primarily feeds on deep-sea fish and squid; uses its protrusible jaws to snatch prey
Migratory Patterns
Goblin sharks are deep-sea creatures that are rarely observed, and their migratory patterns are not well understood. Due to limited data, it is currently unknown if they have specific migratory routes or seasonal movements between different areas or countries.