Goblin shark
The goblin shark (*Mitsukurina owstoni*) is a rare deep-sea shark and the only living species in the family Mitsukurinidae.
The goblin shark is a rare deep-sea shark and the only living species in its family, known for its elongated snout and protrusible jaws.
What it is
The goblin shark (*Mitsukurina owstoni*) is a pinkish deep-sea shark with a long, flattened snout and highly extendable jaws. It is the sole surviving member of the family Mitsukurinidae, a lineage dating back over 100 million years. Its unusual appearance, including nail-like teeth and pink skin, has earned it comparisons to goblins in Japanese folklore.
Key details
Adults typically live deeper than juveniles, often on continental slopes, submarine canyons, and seamounts. The species is found in scattered locations across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Most goblin sharks reach 3 to 4 metres in length, though exceptional individuals can reach about 6 metres. It is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Why it matters
As a living fossil, the goblin shark offers insights into shark evolution and deep-sea adaptations. Its rarity and unique jaw mechanism make it a subject of scientific interest, though it is not considered a threat to humans. Canadian readers may encounter it in marine biology or aquarium education contexts, but it is not a Canadian endemic.
In short
- Only living species in the family Mitsukurinidae.
- Distinctive long snout and protrusible jaws.
- Found in deep waters worldwide, rarely seen.
- Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Canadian readers may encounter goblin shark coverage in marine biology, aquarium education, and ocean conservation reporting, but the species is not known as a Canadian endemic and is generally associated with deep-ocean habitats worldwide.
Quick questions
What is a goblin shark?
Where do goblin sharks live?
Are goblin sharks dangerous to humans?
Sources
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/goblin-sharkSupports: Scientific identity, family, rarity, and general description.
- Smithsonian Ocean — https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/sharks-rays/goblin-sharkSupports: Snout sensory organs, coloration, and deep-sea adaptations.
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service — https://www.fws.gov/story/goblin-sharksSupports: Deep-water habitat and limited observations.
- Ocean Conservancy — https://oceanconservancy.org/blog/2024/02/08/all-about-goblin-sharks/Supports: IUCN Least Concern status.
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/goblin-sharkSupports: Size, habitat, and name origin related to Japanese folklore.