California horn shark  (Heterodontus francisci)

Description

In contrast to the conventional image of sharks as a sleek, dynamic predators, the California horn shark is a sluggish species with an enlarged blunt-nosed head, featuring pronounced ridges above the eyes and a pig-like snout (3) (4). The pectoral fins are broad and muscular, allowing this species to clamber along the sea-bed, while the two dorsal fins each bear a sharp spine, which help to deter predators (2) (4). The overall colouration is dark to light grey or brown on the upperparts, with numerous small, dark brown or blackish spots all over (2).

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