Images(3)

Three Port Jackson Sharks

Photographer Valerie Taylor (born 1935)

DateMarch 1985

Object numberANMS1458[426]

NamePhotographic slide

MediumColour transparency film, paper

DimensionsOverall (Inc carrier): 50 × 50 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program by Valerie Taylor in memory of Ron Taylor

Terms

DescriptionThe Port Jackson Shark (Heterodontus portusjacksoni) is a bullhead shark from the family Heterodontidae, identifiable by the “harness-like” markings through its face and along its back. This locally iconic species is endemic to temperate waters of Australia and known for their screw shaped eggs that occasionally wash up on beaches. Port Jackson Sharks are nocturnal, benthic predators which use their bony teeth plates to feed on a variety of crustaceans, molluscs and sea urchins.