Goblin Shark

Scattered records along continental slopes, mostly from about 250 to 1,000 metres down, are nearly all that is known of this shark, the only living species of an old family. Its body is soft and flabby with small fins, so it is thought to be a slow swimmer. Pores on the long snout detect the weak electric fields of nearby animals.

• It was described in 1898 from a specimen caught off Japan.
• Many specimens have come from deep nets off Japan, and one event off north-eastern Taiwan in 2003 is reported to have produced about 100.
• Its large, oily liver is thought to help it hang in the water near neutral buoyancy.
• The few brought alive to aquariums in Japan have survived only days.
• Its conservation status is Least Concern, because most of its range lies deeper than fisheries operate.

Goblin Sharks likely move slowly through deep water rather than following a clear sleep pattern, conserving energy until prey is detected.

Habitat: deep ocean slope and offshore marine depths

Native range: oceans worldwide in deep water

Deep-sea fish, squid, and crustaceans.

Goblin Sharks likely move slowly through deep water rather than following a clear sleep pattern, conserving energy until prey is detected.

Lifespan is poorly known, but deep-sea sharks are often long-lived enough for slow growth and rare encounters to matter.

Females likely give birth to live young as related mackerel sharks do, sending pups into the same deep, dim hunting world.

Sexes are broadly similar, though females may grow larger.

Rarity: Very rare · 86/100. Goblin Shark depends on a narrow or fragile habitat base, so any pressure on deep ocean slope and offshore marine depths can affect it quickly.

• Keep distance and let the animal choose the space.
• Avoid blocking movement routes, nesting areas, or feeding behavior.
• Use optics, patience, and quiet observation instead of crowding for a closer view.