Common smooth-hound facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Common smooth-hound |
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Mustelus
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| Species: |
mustelus
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The common smooth-hound (Mustelus mustelus) is a type of houndshark. It belongs to the family called Triakidae. These sharks are found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. You can spot them from the British Isles all the way to South Africa. They also live in the Mediterranean Sea, near Madeira, and the Canary Islands.
Common smooth-hounds usually live in waters from 5 to 50 meters deep. But they can be found much deeper, down to 625 meters! They can grow quite large, up to 200 centimeters (about 6.5 feet). However, most common smooth-hounds are around 100 to 120 centimeters long. When they are born, they are about 35 centimeters long. These sharks give birth to live young, which is called viviparous reproduction.
What Does a Common Smooth-hound Look Like?
The common smooth-hound has a back that is grey-brown. Its belly is white. Sometimes, people confuse it with the starry smooth-hound. The starry smooth-hound has white spots on its back. These spots can sometimes fade, making it hard to tell them apart.
Another shark that looks similar is the tope shark. But the common smooth-hound has a larger second dorsal fin. This can help you tell them apart.
Fins and Their Uses
The common smooth-hound has several fins that help it swim. It has two dorsal fins on its back. It also has an anal fin near its tail. There are two pectoral fins on its sides, like arms. It also has two pelvic fins.
All these fins help the shark stay steady in the water. They also help it steer and move. Male smooth-hounds have special pelvic fins called claspers. These are used for reproduction.
Why Are They Called "Hounds"?
Common smooth-hounds like to gather in large groups. They swim together, much like a pack of dogs. This is why they are called "hounds." It's a fun way to remember their social behavior!
