Fauna
Fish

Goblin Shark

Mitsukurina owstoni

Also known as Elfin Shark

Goblin sharks drift slowly along pitch-black continental slopes, sweeping their elongated, paddle-shaped snouts across the seabed to detect the faint bioelectric fields of buried prey. When an animal comes within reach, elastic ligaments fire the jaws forward out of the mouth cavity in an astonishing slingshot feeding motion. Their soft bodies and large oil-filled livers give them neutral buoyancy, enabling them to stalk the abyss while expending virtually no energy.

Deep-SeaCarnivoreLiving Fossil
Goblin Shark reference
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBlackbelly Rosefish, Deep-sea squid, Isopods
Predators
  • Blue Shark
ThreatsDeep-water commercial bycatch from bottom trawls and longlines
HabitatsUpper continental slopes, submarine canyons, and seamounts
Life span30–60 years
Classification
  1. FamilyMitsukurinidae
  2. SpeciesMitsukurina owstoni
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of inflicting severe puncture wounds with rapidly extending jaws if handled aboard fishing vessels.
Why it is dangerous
Equipped with slender, needle-sharp teeth anchored in elastic jaws that shoot forward to seize targets with immense velocity.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a flattened, blade-like snout extending over translucent pink skin and visibly protruding needle teeth.
What to do
Keep clear of the head and mouth when handling deep-sea fishing gear containing a live shark.
Responsible observation
  • Submersible Observation: Dim high-intensity lights during submersible dives to protect eyes adapted to absolute darkness.
  • Bycatch Safety: Keep hands well clear of the mouth and head when assisting with fishery bycatch release.
  • Scientific Reporting: Report any captured or stranded specimens to marine researchers to aid deep-sea studies.
Related species
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