The Pale Catshark (Apristurus ampliceps) is a small shark species that belongs to the family Scyliorhinidae. It is commonly found in the Eastern Central Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coast of Mexico.
The Pale Catshark typically grows to a maximum length of around 9 inches (23 cm). It has a slender body with a pale gray or light brown coloration, which helps it blend in with its sandy or muddy habitat on the ocean floor. Like other catsharks, it has cat-like eyes and two dorsal fins.
Being a bottom-dwelling species, the Pale Catshark is commonly found at depths ranging from 820 to 2,000 feet (250 to 600 meters). It primarily feeds on small bony fishes, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Its reproductive biology is not well studied, but it is believed to be an oviparous species, with females laying egg capsules.
Due to its relatively small size and deep-sea habitat, the Pale Catshark has limited interaction with humans and is not considered to be of significant commercial or conservation concern. However, further research is needed to better understand its population status and ecological role in its respective ecosystem.