The swell shark (Cephaloscyllium ventriosum) is a catshark in the family Scyliorhinidae. It is found in the tropical and subtropical eastern Pacific Ocean from between central California to southern Mexico, …

It bends its body into a U-shape, grasps its caudal fin in its mouth and swallows a large quantity of sea water, which makes it swell to twice its normal size. This behavior makes it difficult for a predator to …

A catshark living in the Pacific Ocean, the swell shark gets its name from the pretty swell ability to enlarge itself to almost double its size by sucking in air or water.

May 18, 2009 · Swell sharks are relatively small, inactive sharks, fairly common to Southern California waters. The common name is based on their ability, when threatened, to engorge the stomach with …

Feb 10, 2025 · This shark is aptly named the “swell shark” due to its ability to swallow large amounts of water, swelling its body to twice its normal size, when threatened by a potential predator.

1 day ago · Shark attacks are extremely rare; however, following multiple encounters in Northern California, the Golden State hit record highs for shark incidents in 2025.

Details: The swell shark is a small, nocturnal species of shark. They have large mouths, extending past their eyes. Swell sharks have a broad head and stout body. They are a yellowish brown color, with a …

Nov 19, 2020 · Swell sharks are found in temperate and subtropical marine waters in kelp beds with boulder and rocky reef substrate. Although this species has been reported to a water depth of 457 …

Cephaloscyllium ventriosum can take in water or air as a means of escaping from predators, giving it the common name "swell shark." It hides in rocky caves and crevices and swallows water to expand its …

To find swell sharks, simply drop into one of the shallow gullies between the rock ridges and look in the shadows with a dive light. Like many California shore dives, Refugio is choked with kelp and heavily …