Port Jackson Shark, scientifically known as Heterodontus portusjacksoni, is one of the impressive and mysterious creatures of the oceans. This creature belongs to the Heterodontidae family and constitutes one of the interesting subjects of marine biology with both its physical characteristics and lifestyle.
Port Jackson Shark Physical Characteristics
Port Jackson Sharks, where males are generally 76 cm in size and females are 80-95 cm in size, can reach a maximum length of 1.7 m. This species, with its blunt head and prominent protrusions, has an eye-catching appearance. Sharp front teeth and softer, flat teeth at the back reflect the feeding adaptations of this fish. The pectoral fins are broad and spade-like, while the anal and pelvic fins are smaller. The caudal fin is heterocercous.
What Do Port Jackson Sharks Eat?
Port Jackson Sharks eat a diverse diet that includes molluscs, crustaceans, sea urchins, starfish, and bony fish. Although they are known as oystercrackers, their diet consists mostly of other marine creatures such as starfish and lobsters.
Where Did the Port Jackson Shark Get Its Name? Where Does He Live?
The name of these sharks comes from Port Jackson in New South Wales, Australia. However, this name does not adequately represent the large area where these sharks live. Rocks, sand and mud bottoms constitute the habitats of these sharks. They can be found from Moreton Bay (north of Brisbane, Australia) to the North Island (north of Perth, Western Australia) and around Tasmania.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
This species has an impressive migration, capable of traveling up to 800 km. Each year, these sharks return to the same spawning grounds, some traveling distances exceeding 800 km. The end of winter and the beginning of spring are the mating period for these fish. More than one male courts the female, and as a result of internal fertilization, the female produces 10-16 leathery eggs. Eggs are laid in rock crevices and hatch after 9-12 months. Newborn sharks are on average 25.5 cm long.
Port Jackson Sharks are a popular and well-known species among bullhead and horn sharks. It can be said that their names may be misleading, and these fish do not actually have much resemblance to bulldogs or pigs.
Port Jackson Sharks are thought to be harmless to humans, but although their teeth are not large or sharp, they can deliver a painful bite. The shark has two dorsal fins of similar size. There is a spine on the front edge of each fin that is said to be poisonous.
