Broadfin Shark

Females and males of the broadfin shark species are sexually dimorphic. Females, on average, are larger than males, and it is reported that males mature at a smaller size than females. The reported size of females has decreased when compared with previous recordings of the species, with the new maximum size of females being around 175 cm (69 in), while the reported size of males has increased. Another way to tell males and females apart is by looking at the end of their pelvic fins, as males possess calcified claspers (external appendage that aid in reproduction) on the ends of their pelvic fins.

The broadfin shark is found in both the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Its distribution is sporadic, with sightings occurring off the coasts of Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Burma, China, and Sarawak. The species tends to spend most of its time in coastal waters, not far off the coast and within the continental shelf. Females and males are evenly distributed throughout their habitat range.

Lamiopsis temminckii is a placental viviparous species. This means that young have an umbilical scar left over at birth. Females of this species average two to four embryos per uterus at a time, and the typical amount of embryos total in a litter averages to be around eight at a time. Late term embryos are common in the summer (April–August), and births are estimated to occur most often during the pre southwest monsoon season and southwest monsoon season from March to September. At birth, the broadfin shark ranges in size from 41.8–65.0 cm (16.5–25.6 in). The shark has a low productivity rate, and therefore, a limited rebound potential.

The shark is named in honor of Coenraad Jacob Temminck, the director of the Rijksmuseum van Natuurlijke Historie in Leiden, Netherlands.