Species profile
Broadnose Sevengill Shark
Notorynchus cepedianus
At a glance
Broadnose Sevengill Shark (Notorynchus cepedianus) is an IUCN Vulnerable invertebrate regulated in 5 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
Confirmed by 99 research-grade iNaturalist observations across the species' range.
Notable details
- Has 7 gill slits on each side — most modern sharks have only 5.
- Represents an ancient shark lineage that predates most modern shark families.
- Can reach nearly 10 feet in length and weigh over 200 pounds.
- Has been observed hunting cooperatively in groups to take down large prey.
- Frequents bays, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters in temperate regions worldwide.
Where Broadnose Sevengill Shark are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Broadnose Sevengill Shark
Background
The broadnose sevengill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus) is the only extant member of the genus Notorynchus, in the family Hexanchidae. It is recognizable because of its seven gill slits, while most shark species have five gill slits, with the exception of the members of the order Hexanchiformes and the sixgill sawshark. This shark has a large, thick body, with a broad head and blunt snout. The top…
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Broadnose Sevengill Shark article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other invertebrates on CatchRules
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.