Other names: Australian smooth hound, Flake, Sweet william, Smooth dog-shark
The gummy shark, also known as Mustelus antarcticus, is a small to medium-sized shark found in the coastal waters of southern Australia. Recognizable by its smooth, grey skin, it is a popular species in commercial fisheries and is considered harmless to humans.
Other names
Australian smooth hound, Flake, Sweet william, Smooth dog-shark
Length
~160" (max 185)
Weight
~24" (max 30)
Water
Salt
Depth
350 ft
Eel
Mullet
Octopus
Pilchards
Salmon
Squid
Squid strips
TrevallyFound in shallow coastal waters, including bays and estuaries
Prefers sandy and muddy bottoms where it can hunt for food
Feeds on crustaceans, marine worms, and small fish
Juveniles are often found in shallower waters, while adults venture to deeper areas
Ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young
Females have a gestation period of approximately one year
Newborns are often found in shallow waters until they grow larger
Adults form schools by sex and size, with females often migrating longer distances than males
