Sicklefin Smoothhound
VU

Sicklefin Smoothhound

Mustelus lunulatus

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sicklefin_smooth-hound

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Sicklefin Smoothhound faces severe pressure from intensive commercial and artisanal fishing throughout its range in the Indo-Pacific. This species is particularly vulnerable to overfishing due to its slow reproductive rate and late sexual maturity typical of sharks. Coastal habitat degradation and pollution in shallow waters where juveniles develop further compound population declines.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Sicklefin Smoothhound inhabits shallow coastal waters, continental shelves, and inshore areas of the Indo-Pacific region. This species prefers sandy and muddy bottoms in depths typically ranging from nearshore waters to approximately 200 meters.

MARINE· major

Other threatened species in Triakidae

Brown SmoothhoundVU

Brown Smoothhound

Mustelus henlei

Unknown

Threatened in Colombia

EN

Helena's Marsupial Frog

Gastrotheca helenae

Stable
EN

Varied White-fronted Capuchin

Cebus versicolor

Declining
VU

Styrax duidae

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EN

Baird's Tapir

Tapirus bairdii

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Sicklefin Smoothhound classified as Vulnerable?
Sicklefin Smoothhound is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Sicklefin Smoothhound faces severe pressure from intensive commercial and artisanal fishing throughout its range in the Indo-Pacific. This species is particularly vulnerable to overfishing due to its slow reproductive rate and late sexual maturity typical of sharks. Coastal habitat degradation and pollution in shallow waters where juveniles develop further compound population declines.
Where does Sicklefin Smoothhound live?
Sicklefin Smoothhound occurs in Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, and Peru (plus 1 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Sicklefin Smoothhound?
The main threats to Sicklefin Smoothhound are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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