Distribution of ampullary pores on three catshark species (Apristurus spp.) suggest a vertical-ambush predatory behaviour

Apristurus is a genus of typically small sharks that inhabit deep waters around the globe. Relatively little is known about the feeding behaviour of these species. Here, the electro - sensory biology of 3 species, A. aphyodes, A. melanoasper and A. microps, was investigated. Intra-specific variation in ampullary pore abundance was high in all species, highlighting the need for studies to examine multiple individuals. Abundance and distribution of ampullary pores on the head indicate that all 3 species are vertical ambush predators.