The Broadnosed Sevengill Shark is arguably one of the most fascinating and ancient shark species. All modern sharks typically have five gill slits; however, the broadnosed Sevengill shark has seven gill slits. This makes it unique in comparison to many other shark species. While many sharks prefer open ocean and swim quickly to catch prey, the broadnosed Sevengill shark prefers a Coastal environment where rocky reefs, kelp forests, Estuaries, and bays allow for successful feeding. Additionally, the broadnosed Sevengill shark is characterised by a broad head, a large, muscular body, and impressive hunting abilities. These characteristics allow it to compete with other predators in the ocean.

An easily recognisable characteristic of the broadnosed Sevengill shark is its number of gill slits.

Most sharks have:

• Five gill slits

But the broadnosed Sevengill shark has:

• seven gill slits

According to scientists, early sharks were thought to have had multiple gill openings before modern shark lineages evolved into the present-day five-gill design.

There are a few features of the Broadnosed Sevengill Shark that distinguish it from other sharks.

Identification characteristics include:

• Wide, rounded head
• Short, flat snout
• Seven visible gill slits
• Single dorsal fin placed well behind the body centerline
• Large, tooth-filled mouth
• Grey-brown colour with predominantly black, dark grey, or brownish-black, occasionally interspersed markings with a few pale or white speckles
• Thick, heavy-bodied build
• Large tail for rapid acceleration

Its broad head allows it to capture a variety of prey and is also responsible for its name.

The size of a broadnosed Sevengill shark depends largely on the individual’s age and gender. Sizes typically include:

• Juvenile sevengills less than one meter
• Adult males are approximately two metres
• Adult Females approximately three metres (occasionally longer)
• Exceptionally large individuals approximately three metres

Female broodstock are generally larger than males, so they can carry their unborn pups to term.

Broadnosed Sevengill Sharks are opportunistic predators with one of the widest ranges of dietary items of any coastal shark species.

Primary food sources:

• fish
• rays
• other small sharks
• squid
• octopus
• seals
• sea lions
• Dolphins (rare)
• dead whales and other Marine carrion

Young sevengills primarily eat smaller fish and invertebrates. As they grow older, their diet expands to incorporate larger prey. Due to their high placement in Marine food webs, adult broadnosed sevengill sharks help regulate prey populations within ecosystems.

These sharks appear to be relatively docile and slow-moving. However, they do exhibit interesting behaviours, including:

Seasonal migration

Certain populations migrate between shallow Coastal waters and deeper offshore waters in response to food availability and water temperature.

Hunting in kelp forests

Kelp forests provide ideal hiding areas for Sevengill sharks to ambush prey.

Carrion feeding

Like many other sharks, Broadnosed Sevengill Sharks consume carrion from deceased marine animals, which helps recycle nutrients within marine ecosystems.

While broadnosed Sevengill sharks are certainly large predators that could potentially cause severe injury if encountered by humans:

• Encounters with humans are quite rare.
• When left unbothered, most sharks do not show interest in swimming or diving with humans.

Therefore, follow established Marine safety procedures and never feed or physically interact with wild sharks.

This shark is an exceptional survivor from a very old family that has been alive for millions of years. It’s a standout due to its seven gills, large, flat head, ability to hunt powerfully with explosive ambush tactics, and position at or near the top of the food chain in many Coastal areas.

While this species is known to be resilient, it now encounters multiple major threats, including:

• Overfishing
• Habitat loss
• Climate change

It will therefore require:

• Continued research by scientists and/or researchers
• Responsible management of fishing
• The creation of marine protected areas

These efforts are essential to protect this animal so that future generations may have the opportunity to view and learn about this unique species.

Whether you find the diversity of sharks exciting, visit our shark diving tour website for more information about the sharks encountered on a shark dive tour in Gansbaai, South Africa.