Reviewed species page
Vivaldi
Common name: Bythaelurus Vivaldii
Bythaelurus vivaldii
Bythaelurus vivaldii
Data deficient (DD)
Overview
Bythaelurus vivaldii is a poorly documented catshark from Somali waters in the western Indian Ocean, with a conservation assessment of data deficient. A catshark in the family Scyliorhinidae and order Carcharhiniformes. Known from the western Indian Ocean off Somalia.
Most species are bottom-associated and favor reefs, soft-bottom shelves, canyons, or upper-slope terrain. Habitat varies substantially by genus.
Why it matters: Many catshark egg cases are the classic 'mermaid's purses' washed ashore after hatching.
Common nameBythaelurus Vivaldii
Scientific nameBythaelurus vivaldii
FamilyScyliorhinidae
OrderCarcharhiniformes
Max length0.3 m
ConservationData deficient (DD)
RegionWestern Indian Ocean: Off Somalia
What this shark is
A catshark in the family Scyliorhinidae and order Carcharhiniformes.
Where it lives
Known from the western Indian Ocean off Somalia.
Most species are bottom-associated and favor reefs, soft-bottom shelves, canyons, or upper-slope terrain. Habitat varies substantially by genus.
How it differs from similar sharks
Compare it against Arabian catshark, Bythaelurus Bachi, and Dusky catshark.
Why it is notable
They are usually harmless and seldom noticed outside trawls, research catches, aquaria, or night dives.
Many catsharks are cryptic and nocturnal, resting by day and foraging slowly over the bottom after dark.
Related shark pages
These links are meant to help readers continue through related species, not force extra clicks.
Arabian catshark
Common name: Bythaelurus Alcockii
Bythaelurus alcockii
0.3 m maxData deficient (DD)
Bythaelurus Bachi
Bythaelurus bachi from Walters Shoals
0.4 m maxData Deficient (DD)
Dusky catshark
Common name: Bythaelurus Canescens
Bythaelurus canescens
0.7 m maxVulnerable (VU)
Broadhead cat shark
Common name: Bythaelurus Clevai
Cleva's catshark
0.4 m maxData deficient (DD)