Ghost Shark
Dark Ghost Shark (Hydrolagus novaezealandiae)
The Dark Ghost Shark, sometimes marketed as Pearl Fish, is a deepwater species found at depths of 100–600 metres. It has a brown dorsal surface patterned with plate stripes and spots, fading to silver on the belly. The species features a blunt, rounded head, large eyes, very large pectoral fins, and a long tapering tail. Its first dorsal fin is preceded by a strong spine, characteristic of ghost sharks.
The Dark Ghost Shark is commercially caught year-round, primarily as bycatch in deepwater trawl fisheries. Typical commercial specimens measure 50–80 cm in length (excluding the tail filament) and weigh 600 g–1.5 kg.
Its white fillets are firm, lean, and moist, with a mild, sweet flavour. The flesh holds its shape well during cooking, making it highly versatile. It can be prepared using frying, baking, steaming, poaching, grilling, or incorporated into curries and casseroles.
The species is managed under New Zealand’s Quota Management System (QMS) to ensure sustainability.
| Nutritional Information | |
|---|---|
| Quantity per 100 grams | |
| Energy | 334 kJ |
| Protein | 17.4 g |
| Fat | |
| Total | 1.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.3 g |
| Sodium | 283 mg |
| Months Caught | |
| Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec | |
| Catch Areas: GSH3, GSH4, GSH5, and GSH7 | |
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