Bythaelurus alcockii, Arabian Catshark

Abstract

The holotype, and only known specimen of the Arabian Catshark (Bythaelurus alcockii), from the Indian Museum in Calcutta may be lost. It was presumably small (<30 cm total length) and was captured in the Arabian Sea, off Pakistan, at a depth of between 1,134 to 1,262 m. All aspects of the biology (including maximum size) and levels of threats are unknown. The taxonomic status and validity of this species is uncertain. The only known specimen may have actually been an Apristurus species. Given the uncertain taxonomic status of this species, and the fact that the only known specimen may be lost, it is assessed as Data Deficient at present. This assessment should be revisited as further information becomes available.