Ghost Shark

Ghost Shark (Pale and Dark) are found throughout New Zealand waters.

Caught year round off the central and southern continental shelf. Ghost Sharks are more abundant in water 100 to 500 metres deep off the west coast of the South Island, and on the Chatham Rise.

Family

Ghost Shark belong to the Chimaeridae family (Chimaeras and Ghost Sharks).

Physical attributes

Brown body above with a pattern of pale stripes and spots, the colouring paling to silver on the belly. The head is blunt and rounded, the eyes large, and there is a long tapering tail. The first dorsal fin is preceded by a strong spine, and the pectoral fins are very large. Pale Ghost Sharks are paler brown than H. novaezelandiae and white below, with soft skin that damages easily. The species is distinguished from H. novaezelandiae by the lack of dark mottling on the skin and dorsal fin.

The flesh is white and firm.

Sustainability

Ghost Shark is managed by the Ministry for Primary Industries using the New Zealand Quota Management System (QMS). Regular stock assessments are conducted to estimate fishery stock size and numbers. Scientific studies are also used. From these, scientists can estimate future stock sizes and catch limits.

Geographical location

Caught year round off the central and southern continental shelf. Ghost Sharks are more abundant in water 100 to 500 metres deep off the west coast of the South Island and on the Chatham Rise.

Market Names

• New Zealand: Dark Ghost shark, Pale Ghost shark, Pearl fillets, Pearl fish
• Commonwealth of Independent States: Khimrea, Gidrolag
• The Netherlands: Ratvis, Zeerat
• France: Chimère Germany: Seeratte, Spöke
• Greece: Himera, Gatos
• Italy: Cimera
• Japan: Ginbuka, Ginzame
• Korea: Un sang eo
• Spain: Quimera

Locations Caught