The horn shark is a small shark species native to the coastal waters of northwestern North America. This shark gets its name from its broad, flat head and the prominent ridge behind its large eyes, resembling horns, which contributes to its reputation as one of the most resilient shark species.
Typically measuring between 8 and 18 inches, the horn shark is easily identified by its short, blunt head with eye ridges and two high dorsal fins equipped with large venomous spines. Its body is usually brown or gray, adorned with numerous small dark spots.
As a clumsy swimmer, the horn shark prefers using its flexible, muscular pectoral fins to navigate along the ocean floor rather than swimming through the water. Generally solitary, these sharks have been observed in small groups, especially during mating season. By day, horn sharks rest motionless in caves, crevices, or thick algae mats, remaining alert and ready to swim away if disturbed. At night, they actively search for food above the reef.
Horn sharks are carnivorous predators, primarily consuming hard-shelled mollusks and crustaceans, which make up about 95% of their diet. They use their short, hardened heads to break apart shells before eating the soft insides. They also feed on echinoderms like sea urchins and starfish.
With a powerful bite, horn sharks are best fed using a feeding stick initially, as they may accidentally bite if hand-fed. Generally tame, they can become aggressive during feeding. It's advisable to keep them in pairs. Their diet includes crabs, squid, shrimp, and clams, with cleaned squid recommended for feeding.
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