Unlike its larger, more predatory and popular cousin, the ragged-tooth shark in the I&J Predator Exhibit, the dark shyshark Haploblepharus pictus is more camera shy and prefers to lurk in shallow, sandy areas.

The exception, of course, being the Oceans of Contrast: Atlantic Ocean Gallery, which this dark shyshark calls home.

The 60cm-long shark is often confused with the puff adder shysharks, but contrary to its name can be identified by the large, light spots on its dark body. Perhaps this is how Two Oceans Aquarium Flickr group member Stefan Hurter captured him on camera?

The ragged-tooth shark often preys on juveniles of the same species, but the dark shyshark prefers small, bottom-dwelling fish as its fishbait, rounding off their diet with crustaceans and molluscs.

Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium and try to coax this fascinating introvert out today.

Been to the Aquarium lately? We’d love to see what you saw! If you have images that you’d like to share with us, join the Two Oceans Aquarium Flickr group and you could see your picture on our blog!