Orange-Spotted Catshark Jaw w/data ex Dr Gordon Hubbell

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Orange-Spotted Catshark Jaw with Data (Asymbolus rubiginosus)

A rare and scientifically documented specimen from the deep waters of Australia — perfect for collectors, educators, and marine enthusiasts. Once part of the renowned collection of Dr. Gordon Hubbell.

 Species & Classification

• Scientific Name: Asymbolus rubiginosus
• Common Names: Orange-Spotted Catshark, Rusty Catshark, Rustyspotted Catshark
• Family: Pentanchidae (deepwater catsharks) Wikipedia
• Order: Carcharhiniformes

 Biology & Physical Characteristics

• Small, pale brown shark with distinctive orange-brown spots along the body and a faint brownish blotch beneath the eye Sharkwater
• Can grow up to 55 cm (21.6 in) in length, though commonly measured around 39 cm Sharkwater
• Maximum weight up to 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) MarineWise
• Teeth are ridged, primarily with 5 cusps — visible in jaw specimens Shark-References
• Relatively broad head and trunk with a short, slender caudal peduncle Shark-References
• Females mature at approximately 36 cm; males at roughly 34 cm Sharkwater

 Habitat & Distribution

• Found exclusively off the coast of Western Australia, at depths ranging from 25 to 540 metres (82–1,772 ft) Wikipedia
• Inhabits coastal waters among rocky areas and reefs MarineWise
• Occurs on the continental shelf and slope Shark-References
• Range also extends into Queensland waters in the eastern Australian range

 Reproduction

• Oviparous — eggs are laid in pairs; embryos feed solely on yolk Shark-References
• Likely reproductively active year-round, making it a relatively productive species Pipi

🌍 Conservation Status

• Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Sharkwater
• Not commercially targeted, but occasionally taken as bycatch in demersal trawl fisheries Pipi
• Range overlaps with protected areas within the Commonwealth Marine Reserve network Sharkwater

Misc. & Collector Facts

• Also known as the "Rusty Catshark" — a great keyword for cross-collectors searching both names
• A deepwater species — rarely encountered by divers, making physical specimens exceptionally uncommon
• The jaw's multi-cusped teeth are characteristic of the Asymbolus genus and are scientifically distinctive
• "With data" means this specimen includes collection locality, depth, and/or specimen information — dramatically increasing scientific and educational value
• Ideal for: marine biology educators, shark jaw collectors, natural history displays, museum-quality specimens