The kitefin shark is also known as a seal shark. It is the only species (‘Dalatias’- Latin name from the Linnaeus classification system) in its genus. Found sporadically around the world, it usually swims close to the sea floor at depths of 200-600 meters (660-1,970 feet). The kitefin shark has a unique feature- it has the largest luminous vertebrae on record (bioluminescence is light produced by a chemical reaction).

The large teeth are differentiated between the upper and lower jaws identifying the kitefin shark as a powerful, solitary predator that feeds mainly on bony fish. It also takes bites out of marine animals larger than itself. There are 16-21 tooth rows in the upper jaw and 17-20 rows in the lower jaw. The upper teeth are small and spike-shaped, curving slightly towards the corners of its mouth while the lower teeth are very large, knife-shaped, and serrated, with their bases interlocking to form a continuous cutting surface.

This shark has a slender body with a very short, blunt snout, large eyes and spiracles (openings) plus thick lips. Typical length is 1.0-1.4 meters (3.3-4.6 feet).

The kitefin shark is fished commercial for its meat, skin, and liver oil. This fact, plus the low reproductive rate of this species has led it to be assessed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, an international organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

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