The Pygmy Shark is a term that is used to refer to several different species of small sharks belonging to different families. Here are two notable examples:
- Pygmy Ribbontail Catshark (Eridacnis radcliffei): This is a species of catshark found in the western central Atlantic Ocean, particularly off the coast of Cuba. It is a small shark that typically grows to a length of around 11 inches (28 cm). It has a slender body, a distinctive long, ribbon-like tail, and a light gray or brown coloration.
- Pygmy Lanternshark (Etmopterus perryi): This is another small deep-sea shark that is sometimes referred to as the Dwarf Lanternshark. It is found in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Colombia and Venezuela. It is considered the smallest known species of shark, with adults typically reaching lengths of about 7 to 8 inches (17 to 20 cm). It has bioluminescent organs called photophores, which help it camouflage and communicate in the dark depths of the ocean.
Both of these shark species are relatively small in size compared to many other shark species. They inhabit different oceanic regions and have distinct characteristics and adaptations that allow them to survive in their respective environments.