To seven metres and more. A tail about half the total length is a distinctive feature of this species. Cosmopolitan in temperate and tropical seas, it is well known in our northern waters and stragglers may well wander south to Foveaux Strait. Its colour is variable, usually shades of olive brown to grey-brown. A surface species of oceanic waters, it is a fish-eater, harrying school fish with its long tail either to disable them or to keep them herded together. These sharks have small mouths and required considerable time to take a bait. They are occasionally foul-hooked in the tail when they attack trolled lures.

Get the most from fishnz with monthly newsletters, discounts, special offers and prizes. It's FREE!