The Tope Shark possesses a fairly slender body with a long and pointed snout. It features upper labial furrows that are slightly longer than the lower ones. Behind its eye, you can spot a small, visible spiracle. One distinct characteristic of this shark is that the origin of its first dorsal fin is located posterior to the pectoral fin's free rear tip. The second dorsal fin originates opposite the anal fin origin and is similar in size to the anal fin. Its lower caudal lobe is long and distinct, ending with a pointed tip. The terminal caudal lobe is exceptionally long as well. The Tope Shark's dorsal coloration is typically grey-brown with bronzy hues, while its fins appear somewhat dusky.
Size:
The Tope Shark can reach a maximum length of approximately 200cm, making it a moderately sized species. At birth, Tope Sharks measure around 30-40cm in length, showcasing their relatively small size when they enter the world.
Habitat:
Tope Sharks are found in both cold and warm temperate waters, inhabiting shallow bays, continental shelves, and upper slopes. While they have been recorded at depths of up to 823m, they are generally found in shallower waters, typically below 200m. It is not uncommon to spot Tope Sharks near the water's surface, as they tend to swim at depths ranging from the surface to 40m.
Distribution:
Widely distributed along most temperate coastlines, the Tope Shark can be found in various regions around the world. However, it is notably absent from the northwest Atlantic and northwest Pacific. On the west coast of North America, this species is prevalent from northern British Columbia all the way down to the Baja Peninsula, making it a significant presence in those waters.
The Tope Shark is facing critical endangerment due to various factors, including its low biological productivity and specific reproductive cycle. These sharks are frequently caught as both target and bycatch in industrial and small-scale fishing operations that utilize gillnets, longlines, trawls, and hook-and-line methods. While some regions have implemented management measures, such as mandatory release of the species, steep subpopulation and stock reductions have still occurred across the globe. In the Southwest Atlantic, southern Africa, and Australia, subpopulations and stocks have experienced reductions exceeding 80% over the past three generation lengths. The situation is equally concerning in the Northeast Atlantic, where a reduction of 76% has been observed. The New Zealand stock has also suffered, with estimates suggesting a reduction of 30-49% over the same time period. Immediate action is necessary to protect and conserve the Tope Shark, as it faces an 88% reduction in its global population.
Reproduction:
Tope Sharks follow an aplacental viviparous reproductive strategy, meaning they give birth to live young without a yolk-sac placenta. Each litter can consist of 6-52 pups, and the gestation period lasts approximately 12 months. One of the significant factors contributing to the decline of the species is their low reproductive productivity. Female Tope Sharks only become gravid every three years and require two years of rest between pregnancies. Combined with overfishing, this reproductive limitation has had a severe impact on the species, leading to significant declines in population numbers.
Diet:
Tope Sharks are opportunistic feeders with a diverse diet. They consume a wide variety of small bony fishes, including sardines, flounders, midshipmen, rockfish, and mackerel. In addition to fish, they also feed on various invertebrates, exhibiting a versatile feeding behavior.
Behavior:
During the winter, Tope Sharks migrate to warmer waters, showcasing their ability to adapt to changing environments. It is not uncommon to find them in mixed schools alongside other houndsharks, such as leopard sharks. In non-baited situations, Tope Sharks tend to be shy. They can be intimidated by scuba bubbles and may make close passes on snorkelers.
If you're an avid diver or snorkeler, encountering Tope Sharks can be a truly captivating experience. In locations like La Jolla, near San Diego, large schools of these majestic sharks pass through in mid to late summer. When diving in this area, you may encounter Tope Sharks by venturing beyond the open sand and onto mixed rock and kelp. It's important to note that their presence can vary, with waves of abundance followed by periods of absence. So, if you're eager to witness these incredible creatures, be prepared for the unpredictability of their migration patterns.