Some Facts About the Atlantic Sharpnose Shark

I'm sure you've all heard of the Great White shark. You've probably also heard of a Hammerhead shark, and even a Tiger shark. However, I'm willing to bet you've never heard of the Atlantic Sharpnose shark. This shark is less known than the Great White shark or the Hammerhead, yet it is significant in its own right.

Range - First of all, this shark, like its name implies, does indeed make its home in the Atlantic Ocean. It is generally found in the Western Atlantic and can often be found off the coast of South Carolina, Florida, and even in the Gulf of Mexico.

Description - These smaller sharks tend to stay in the range of 30 to 40 inches on average. Their coloration on their top side can vary from grey, olive, and even a grey-brownish color. Underside of the Sharpnose shark is always white. Adults tend to have small white spots, while younger individuals have black edged dorsal and caudal fins.

Diet - Contrary to the common belief that sharks will eat anything they can, the Atlantic Sharpnose shark goes for smaller prey. Shrimp, mollusks, and various small fish are on the menu of this predator.

Reproduction - Sexual maturity for the Atlantic Sharpnose shark occurs when the female is about 33 inches long. In unprotected nesting grounds, she will give birth to live young in a yolksac, which they work their way out of. Each litter there are normally 4-6 pups, although it can range from 1-7. These sharks will reach maturity rather quickly in only 3-4 years.

Dangerous? - Actually unlike most sharks, these smaller sharks are not considered dangerous to humans. Rather than these sharks chasing humans down, the role is reversed; humans will sometimes hunt these sharks for consumption. Even though they aren't a threat to swimming humans, they do cause some trouble to fisherman as they take bait laid out for other fish.