قرش ابن عرس المستدق الخطم
National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
قرش ابن عرس المستدق الخطم, slender weasel shark
Regions
IndiaIndonesiaIraq
Population
3,000
Habitat
Coastal Waters and Continental Shelves
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
5–10 kg (11–22 lbs) and 15–20 years in the wild
Regions
India, Indonesia, Iraq, Kuwait, Malaysia, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Iran, Yemen, Australia
The Slender Weasel Shark (Paragaleus randalli) is a relatively small, slender-bodied shark species native to the Arabian Sea. Growing up to 1.2 meters in length and weighing between 5 and 10 kg, this shark is recognized for its long, narrow body and snout. It inhabits shallow, coastal waters over sandy and muddy substrates, where it feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. The Slender Weasel Shark faces significant threats from overfishing, as it is often caught as bycatch and targeted for its meat and fins. Additionally, ocean warming and habitat degradation from coastal development may further impact its population. Conservation efforts focusing on fisheries management and habitat protection are essential for the survival of this rare shark species.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
