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:

1. Japan
2. Portugal
3. Taiwan
4. South Africa
5. France
6. Spain
7. Australia
8. New Zealand
9. United States
10. Mexico
11. Brazil
12. Argentina
13. Chile
14. Uruguay
15. Namibia

Over the past 16 years, there have been 2 recorded attacks by goblin sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:

• LIST OF BEACHES HERE

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.