| Dwarf lanternshark | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Chondrichthyes |
| Subclass: | Elasmobranchii |
| Order: | Squaliformes |
| Family: | Etmopteridae |
| Genus: | Etmopterus |
| Species: | E. perryi
|
| Binomial name | |
| Etmopterus perryi | |
| |
| Range of the dwarf lanternshark | |
The dwarf lanternshark (Etmopterus perryi) is a species of dogfish shark in the family Etmopteridae and is the smallest shark in the world, reaching a maximum known length of 20 cm (8 in). It is known to be present only on the upper continental slopes off Colombia and Venezuela, at a depth of 283–439 m (928–1,440 ft). This species can be identified by its small size at maturity, long flattened head, and pattern of black ventral markings and a mid-dorsal line. Like other members of its genus, it is capable of producing light from a distinctive array of photophores. Reproduction is aplacental viviparous, with females gestating two or three young at a time. The dwarf lanternshark is not significant to commercial fisheries, but could be threatened by mortality from bycatch; the degree of impact from human activities on its population is unknown.
- ^ Pollom, R.; Lasso-Alcalá, O.; Mejía-Falla, P.A.; Navia, A.F.; Herman, K. (2020). "Etmopterus perryi". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2020: e.T60240A124455061. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T60240A124455061.en. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
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