Eridacnis

Eridacnis is a genus of requiem sharks, belonging to the family Proscylliidae. These sharks are commonly known as finback catsharks due to their distinctive long, low fin on their back along the dorsal ridge, running between the two dorsal fins.

Description

Eridacnis sharks are small, slender sharks with elongated bodies. Key features include their nasal flaps that do not reach the mouth and the presence of a distinct dorsal ridge. They have relatively small mouths and possess labial furrows, small grooves near the corners of the mouth. Their coloration typically consists of a light background overlaid with darker saddles or blotches.

Distribution and Habitat

Finback catsharks are found in deep waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and Indo-Pacific region. They are benthic sharks, dwelling near the seafloor, usually on continental slopes and in deep sea environments.

Species

Currently, the genus Eridacnis includes three recognized species:

• Eridacnis barbouri (Cuban Ribbontail Catshark)
• Eridacnis radcliffei (Pygmy Ribbontail Catshark)
• Eridacnis sinuans (Eastern Ribbontail Catshark)

Biology and Behavior

Eridacnis sharks are thought to be relatively inactive predators, feeding on small bony fishes, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Information about their reproduction is limited, but they are believed to be ovoviviparous, meaning the embryos develop inside the mother's body and are nourished by a yolk sac, eventually being born as live young.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Eridacnis species varies depending on the specific species. They are often caught as bycatch in deep-sea fisheries, which poses a threat to their populations. More research is needed to fully assess their population sizes and the impact of fishing on these species. The cryptic nature and deepwater habitat makes data collection and study difficult.