Hemigaleus

Hemigaleus is a genus of requiem sharks in the family Hemigaleidae. These sharks are found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting warm, shallow waters along continental shelves and near islands. The genus currently contains only one recognized species, Hemigaleus microdon, commonly known as the sharpnose sevengill shark or the sicklefin weasel shark.

Hemigaleus sharks are relatively small, typically reaching lengths of up to about 1.1 meters (3.6 feet). They have a slender body, a long, pointed snout, and large, oval eyes. A distinguishing feature is their seven gill slits, which is unusual among most shark species. Their coloration is generally a uniform grey or brownish-grey on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter underside.

These sharks are primarily piscivorous, feeding on small fish and crustaceans. They are often found near the seabed and are thought to be solitary or to aggregate in small groups. Hemigaleus microdon is viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. The reproductive cycle and gestation period are not extensively documented.

Hemigaleus sharks are not considered a significant threat to humans and are not targeted by commercial fisheries, although they may be caught as bycatch in some areas. Their conservation status is not well-defined due to limited data, but they are generally considered to be of least concern.