Thresher shark

D-Fuchshai, Drescherhai; GB-Tresher shark, common tresher; DK-Rævehaj; PL-Kosogon; EST-Harilik rebashai; RU-Обыкновенная морская лисица; FIN-Kettuhai; S-Rävhaj

Characters

1) Upper part of caudal fin about as long as rest of body.
●) Back dark blue to nearly black or brown, belly white.
Males up to 4 m length, females up to 5.5, max 6 m length.

Similar species

- unmistakable

Biology

Pelagic near surface and diurnal; young animals more often in coastal areas. After 9 to 12 month gestation 2 to 4 young will be born. Shy in respect to humans.

Diet

Mostly smaller shoaling fish like makarel and hering, but also squids and pelagic crustaceans.

Importance

Fins of high commercial importance and food fish.

Endangerment

Endangered worldwide due to increasing commercial use.