Records of Carcharhinus spp. (Chondrichthyes: Carcharhinidae) from off the Algerian coast (southern Mediterranean)

Abstract

         Six species of the genus Carcharhinus were recorded off the Algerian coast (southern Mediterranean). The bignose shark, C. altimus, bronze whaler, C. brachyurus, spinner shark, C. brevipinna, dusky shark, C. obscurus and sandbar shark, C. plumbeus were positively identified. The sixth species was examined, but its definitive identification requires further observations. Observations are given concerning the species observed most frequently. Their occurrence in the study area and in the Mediterranean is described and compared.