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Blacknose Shark: ID, Size & Range

Carcharhinus acronotus

 

The blacknose shark Carcharhinus acronotus.A smaller shark than other similar species, Atlantic stock managed separately from that in the Gulf, VIMS Longline catches increasing in recent years

Use these resources to learn how to identify a blacknose shark, find out what other shark species live in Virginia waters, explore our shark longline data over the years, and find answers to frequently asked questions.

blacknose shark ID GUIDEOTHER VA SHARKSSHARK DATA APP

shark faqs

The blacknose shark is a smaller species that migrates north in the summer. A distinct dusky spot on tip of snout and yellow-green color set it apart from similar species such as spinner and blacktip sharks. Blacknose shark catches have increased recently in VIMS surveys.

Maximum size

Possibly up to 6.5 ft (2.0 m) but most are less than 5.4 ft (1.6 m).

Range

Abundant off the southeastern Atlantic and Gulf coast of USA and the northeastern coast of Venezuela.  In the USA, ranges from North Carolina to Florida, Gulf of Mexico off Florida, Louisiana, and probably Mississippi and Texas.  In Mexico, both the Gulf and Caribbean. Bahamas, Cuba, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Antilles, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, Honduras, Guyana, Venezuela, and the north and south coasts of Brazil.

Diet

Feeds on small fishes.

Depth Range

Inhabits sandy or coral bottom depths of 18 to 64 m.

Ecology

Inhabits inshore and coastal waters.

Fishing Interest

Was once heavily fished, now states have specific regulations.