Abstract

The occurrence of Cetorhinus maximus in Chilean waters is reviewed based upon biological, geographical and temporal data obtained from 30 specimens observed between 1905 and 2009. These records were established from 27°40′S (Punta de Cachos, Bahía Salado) to 55°45′S (Cabo de Hornos). Both males and females were incidentally caught in artisanal gill-net fisheries. The records suggest a segregation of C. maximus by groups of sex–size. Temporal data suggests that C. maximus primarily occur in Chilean coastal waters during spring and summer.