Philippines sawtail catshark

The Philippines sawtail catshark is a rare species of sawtail catshark belonging to the family Pentanchidae, the deepwater catsharks. This species is native to the Philippines and is not known to attack humans. Only three specimens have been caught.

Distribution and habitat

This shark is endemic to marine waters off Dapitan, Philippines. All three specimens have been caught in water approximately deep.

Anatomy and appearance

It has enlarged denticles on the caudal fin, giving it a sawtail appearance like all other sawtail catsharks. The shark's body and caudal fin are not blotched. It also grows to TL and has more vertebrae, distinguishing it from all other catsharks.

Etymology

The shark is named in honor of German philanthropist Jürgen Friedrich, the co-founder of the JAF Foundation in Switzerland, because of his commitment to marine conservation, research, and advocacy.