Author: (Fowler, 1934)
Field Marks:
A stocky catshark with large round brown spots scattered on body, indistinct saddle markings, no white spots, anterior nasal flaps not reaching mouth, no nasoral grooves, labial furrows on lower jaw only, second dorsal fin much smaller than first.
Diagnostic Features:
Body relatively stout but head deep and narrow. Greatest width of head less than 2/3 of head length; no nasoral grooves; anterior nasal flaps moderately expanded medially and posteriorly, well separated medially but extending to the mouth. First dorsal origin about opposite pelvic insertions; second dorsal origin over last third of pelvic bases; interdorsal space somewhat greater than anal base. Denticles rather large and erect crowned, skin fairly rough. Colour pattern of large scattered brown spots as large or larger than eye pupil; 7 dusky saddle marks obscure or obsolete; no white spots. Adult size unknown, maximum size over 24 to 36 cm.
Geographical Distribution:
Indo-West Pacific: "East Indies" (Fowler, 1934), possibly the Philippines (Herre, 1953).
Habitat and Biology:
Unknown.
Size:
Maximum 24 or 36+ cm; adult size unknown.
Interest to Fisheries:
None.
Remarks:
Fowler (1934, 1941) placed this species in Halaelurus, but reexamination of its holotype by Springer (1979) indicated that it belongs in the genus Scyliorhinus (confirmed by the writer, who also examined the holotype).
Type material:
Holotype: U.S. National Museum USNM 43749, 240 mm female. Type Locality: "East Indies".