TaxonHub

Gracile Elephant Shark

Bathytheristes gracilis

A rare deep-sea chimaera species belonging to the Callorhinchidae family, characterized by its delicate morphology and specialized marine adaptation.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Deep oceanic environments, typically at depths between 500-2000 meters, predominantly in temperate and subtropical marine regions of the Southern Hemisphere.

Ecological Role

Plays a crucial role in deep-sea food webs as a mid-level predator, contributing to marine ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Smooth, pale gray to bluish skin with minimal dermal scales, reducing hydrodynamic resistance
  • LIMBS WINGS Soft, flexible pectoral fins for precise navigation and minimal energy expenditure
  • HEAD SENSORY Specialized electroreceptive sensory system for detecting prey in low-light marine environments
  • BODY STRUCTURE Elongated, slender cartilaginous body with a streamlined profile, adapted for efficient deep-sea movement
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Related Species in Callorhinchidae