(Brachaeluridae)
Blind Sharks
Шорні акули
Brachaelurus (blind sharks) is the sole genus of sharks in the family Brachaeluridae in the order Orectolobiformes. Only two extant species of blind sharks occur, both of which are native to shallow coastal waters up to 110 m deep, off the eastern coast of Australia.
They are distinguished by the presence of long barbels, large spiracles, and a groove around the nostrils. They have two dorsal fins, placed close together on the back, and a relatively short tail. Blind sharks have fully functioning eyes, but their name was given to them because when caught by anglers these eyes are closed (probably to protect them).
Blind sharks feed on small fish, cuttlefish, sea anemones, and crustaceans. The female retains the eggs in her body until they hatch (ovoviviparity), during which time the embryos feed solely on the egg yolk.
(Brachaelurus colcloughi)
Colclough's Shark
Шорна акула сіро-блакитна
It occurs along the north-eastern coast of Australia from Gladstone, Queensland to Ballina, New South Wales. It is usually found close to shore in water less than 6 m deep, though it has been recorded as far down as 100 m.
(Brachaelurus waddi)
Blind Shark
Шорна акула плямиста
It is found off the eastern coast of Australia, from Mooloolaba in southern Queensland to Jervis Bay in New South Wales. It is a bottom-dwelling species that generally inhabits the continental shelf from the intertidal zone, to a depth of 73 m, though it has been recorded as deep as 140 m.
