Horn Shark

My species/animal is a fish — Horn Shark (Heterodontus francisci) — a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive horn-like dorsal spines, robust body shape, unique coloration with brown and cream blotches, and slow, methodical behavior.

Males typically develop thicker, more pronounced claspers near their pelvic fins and may have slightly more prominent dorsal spines, while females/juveniles are generally rounder and carry egg capsules that attach to rocks or aquarium structures. They reach about 36 inches (3 feet) in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 300 gallons.

Provide a soft sandbed for resting, plenty of live rock and caves for hiding spots, and moderate open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since they are known to be prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, mollusks, and specially formulated pellets, and with proper care this fish makes a standout addition to the aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.