(family Scyliorhinidae), any of more than 80 species of small, mottled sharks (order Lamniformes). Although many bottom-dwelling species are rare and poorly known ecologically, representatives have been found in all major marine environments of the tropical and temperate regions. Most cat sharks are small (less than 90 cm 【3 feet】), and many have bold body markings. They have slender bodies and eyes that are elongate, giving them a catlike appearance. No species is known to be aggressive toward humans.