Heterodontidae – Bullhead sharks

A group of small, bottom-dwelling sharks found in warm, shallow waters around the world, particularly in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. These sharks are quite different from the typical image of a shark that many people have. Unlike the streamlined, fast-swimming predators like the great white shark, bullhead sharks are slow-moving and have a distinctive, almost comical appearance. They are easily recognized by their broad, flat heads, which give them their name, and their blunt snouts.

One of the most distinctive features of bullhead sharks is their teeth. They have two types of teeth in their mouths, which is reflected in their scientific name, “Heterodontus,” meaning “different teeth.” The front teeth are small and sharp, perfect for grabbing and holding onto slippery prey like small fish, squid, and octopuses. The back teeth, however, are flat and molar-like, designed for crushing and grinding the hard shells of their favorite foods, such as crabs, sea urchins, and mollusks. This unique dental arrangement allows bullhead sharks to have a varied diet and take advantage of different food sources on the ocean floor.

Bullhead sharks are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they tend to rest on the seabed, often hiding among rocks or in crevices to avoid predators. Their bodies are usually covered in a pattern of dark spots or bands, which helps them blend into the rocky ocean floor, providing excellent camouflage. This coloration, along with their ability to remain still for long periods, helps protect them from larger predators.

Bullhead sharks are also known for their ability to use their strong pectoral fins to “walk” along the seabed. They use these fins to push themselves forward slowly and deliberately, which is a unique way of moving compared to other sharks. This method of locomotion allows them to navigate through tight spaces in search of food or shelter.