Bonnethead Shark

Sphyrna tiburo

Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Regions

New England/Mid-AtlanticSoutheastWest Coast

Protected status

None

Also known as

Bonnet hammerheadBonnet sharkBonnetnose sharkShovelhead

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC

Habitat

Abundant in nearshore Florida waters. Commonly seen over shallow sand and mud flats. Moves into deeper coastal waters during the colder months.

Additional information

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Seafood Profile

NOAA FishWatch

Population

The Atlantic and Gulf of America* (formerly Gulf of Mexico) stocks have not been assessed. Although these population levels are unknown, management measures are in place.

Fishing rate

Overfishing status is unknown, but catch is at recommended level.

Bycatch

Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch.

Taste

Sweet, meaty taste.

Texture

Thick, large flakes and moist flesh.

Color

Raw meat is white to tan with a pink blood line

Health benefits

Shark is a low-fat source of protein and is high in selenium and vitamins B6 and B12.

Sources

Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

NOAA Species Directory

FWC Wildlife Habitats Profile (FL)

FishWatch (NOAA)

Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady