Pyjama Shark: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Emily Buono

The Pyjama Shark is a fascinating creature that has captured the attention of many animal enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will dive into the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this intriguing animal. Whether you’re a fan of marine life or simply curious about the diversity of our natural world, join us as we explore the wonders of the Pyjama Shark.

Firstly, let’s take a look at the history of this unique species. The Pyjama Shark, also known as the Broadnose Pygmy Shark, was first discovered in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Its name originates from the distinct pattern on its skin, resembling the stripes of a pyjama. With origins dating back millions of years, this ancient species still thrives today, adapting to various environmental changes over time.

Moving on to some interesting facts about the Pyjama Shark, did you know that it is one of the smallest shark species in the world? Measuring only about 25 centimeters in length, these sharks are truly a marvel of nature. They primarily inhabit the continental and insular slopes, preferring depths of around 400 to 1,000 meters. This elusive nature makes it quite a challenge to study them in their natural habitat.

Finally, let’s explore the classification of the Pyjama Shark. Scientifically known as Poroderma africanum, it belongs to the Dalatiidae family. These sharks are characterized by their slender bodies, large eyes, and unique stripe pattern. Despite their small size, they play an important role in maintaining the balance of their marine ecosystem.

In this blog post, we’ve only scratched the surface of the Pyjama Shark’s story. There is so much more to learn and appreciate about these incredible creatures. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles on various animal species, where we delve deeper into the mesmerizing world of Animals Name. And don’t forget to check out our existing article featuring over 155 fascinating animals. Happy reading!

History of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a unique and fascinating creature that can be found in the waters around South Africa. This shark gets its name from the interesting pattern on its body, which resembles the stripes on a pair of pyjamas. As one of the smaller shark species, the Pyjama Shark typically reaches a length of around 3 feet. It has a slender body and long, narrow pectoral fins that help it to swim gracefully through the water.

Pyjama Sharks are often found in shallow coastal waters, where they like to hide among the rocks and seaweed during the day. They come out to hunt for food at night, using their excellent sense of smell to locate prey such as small fish, crabs, and octopuses. These sharks are not considered to be dangerous to humans, as they have small teeth and are not known to attack unless provoked.

In South Africa, the Pyjama Shark has been protected since 1991 due to concerns about overfishing. Measures have been put in place to help conserve their population, such as fishing quotas and restrictions on catching pregnant females. Additionally, these sharks are often caught by recreational anglers and may be released unharmed if caught accidentally.

Overall, the Pyjama Shark is a fascinating and important species in the ocean ecosystem. By understanding and protecting these creatures, we can help ensure that they continue to thrive in their natural environment for generations to come.

Importance of Pyjama Shark

The pyjama shark is an important animal in our oceans. It plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the underwater ecosystem. These sharks are skilled hunters and feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. By keeping the population of these prey species in check, the pyjama shark helps prevent overgrowth and maintain healthy numbers.

Another reason why the pyjama shark is important is because it acts as a prey for larger predators. Animals like seals and larger sharks depend on the pyjama shark as a food source. If the pyjama shark were to disappear, it would disrupt the food chain and affect the survival of these predators.

Furthermore, the pyjama shark also contributes to scientific research. Scientists study this species to learn more about ocean ecosystems and to better understand shark behavior. Through these studies, valuable information is gathered, which can then be used to help conserve and protect the pyjama shark and other shark species.

In conclusion, the pyjama shark is a crucial part of the ocean ecosystem. Its role as a predator helps maintain a healthy balance, and its presence as prey supports the survival of larger predators. Studying this species also helps scientists gather important information about our oceans. It is important to recognize and protect the pyjama shark to ensure the health and stability of our precious marine environments.

Amazing Facts About Pyjama Shark

1. The Pyjama Shark, also known as the Striped Catshark, is a small species of shark.
2. It gets its name from the dark stripe patterns on its body, similar to the design on a pair of pyjamas.
3. Pyjama Sharks are usually found in the waters off the coast of southern Africa.
4. They prefer shallow, rocky areas in the ocean, where they can hide and search for prey.
5. These sharks are mostly nocturnal, meaning they are more active at night.
6. Pyjama Sharks are carnivorous predators, feeding on small fish and invertebrates such as crabs and squid.
7. Due to their small size, adults typically measure between 60-80 cm in length.
8. They have a unique narrow body shape and elongated snout, making them different from other shark species.
9. The coloration of Pyjama Sharks can vary from yellowish to light brown, with dark stripes running along their bodies.
10. They have small, oval-shaped eyes positioned towards the top of their head, giving them a characteristic appearance.
11. These sharks reproduce through egg-laying, with females usually laying two eggs at a time.
12. The eggs have a protective covering called a mermaid’s purse and take several months to hatch.
13. Pyjama Sharks are not considered dangerous to humans and are not known to attack.
14. However, they can become quite territorial and aggressive with other sharks of the same species.
15. The conservation status of Pyjama Sharks is currently classified as “Least Concern” due to their widespread distribution and stable population.

Can we keep Pyjama Shark as our Pet?

Pyjama sharks are fascinating creatures, but unfortunately, they cannot be kept as pets. These beautiful sharks are native to the waters around South Africa and Namibia. They are known for their distinctive pattern of stripes, which resembles the design on a pair of pyjamas. However, due to their specific requirements and conservation status, it is not feasible or ethical to have them as pets.

Firstly, pyjama sharks have unique needs that are difficult to replicate in a home aquarium. They require large, well-maintained tanks with plenty of space to swim and explore. Additionally, they need a specific diet consisting of small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Meeting these requirements can be quite challenging for an average pet owner, making it impractical to keep them at home.

Furthermore, the conservation status of pyjama sharks is a cause for concern. These sharks are currently classified as “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their populations have been declining due to overfishing and habitat degradation. It is crucial that we focus on protecting and preserving their natural habitats rather than attempting to keep them as pets.

In conclusion, while pyjama sharks are remarkable creatures, it is not possible or advisable to have them as pets. They have specific needs that are difficult to meet outside their natural habitat, and their conservation status requires us to prioritize their well-being in the wild. It is important for us to appreciate these mesmerizing sharks from a distance and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Size of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a small species of shark found in the waters off the coast of South Africa. It usually grows to be around 3.3 to 4.3 feet long, which is about the height of an average adult. This makes them relatively small compared to other sharks, which can grow much larger.

Despite their small size, Pyjama Sharks are still a fascinating creature to learn about. They have a slender body shape and a distinctive pattern of dark stripes that resemble the pattern on a pair of pyjamas, hence their name. These stripes help them blend in with the seafloor, where they like to hide and hunt for food.

Pyjama Sharks have a gentle nature and are not known to be aggressive towards humans. They mainly feed on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates found in the ocean. Despite their small size, they can be quite powerful when it comes to capturing their prey.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark is a small shark species that grows to be about the height of an average adult. Despite their size, they have distinctive striped patterns and are quite powerful hunters. These fascinating creatures can be found in the waters off the coast of South Africa and are known for their gentle nature.

Habitat of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a fascinating creature that calls the coastal waters of South Africa its home. It spends its days hiding and resting in rocky crevices along the ocean floor. These crevices provide the Pyjama Shark with shelter and protection from predators. The rocky habitat also allows the shark to camouflage itself, as its unique pattern of black and white stripes blends in with the surrounding rocks and sand.

The Pyjama Shark prefers to live in shallow waters, usually up to 100 meters in depth. This allows it to easily hunt for its preferred prey, such as small fish and crustaceans. The coastal waters provide an abundance of food sources for the shark, making it an ideal location for its habitat.

The coastal environment also offers the Pyjama Shark plenty of opportunities to reproduce and raise offspring. Female Pyjama Sharks lay eggs, which they attach to the rocky bottom using long tendrils. The eggs are then left to incubate for several months. This habitat protects the vulnerable eggs from predators, ensuring the survival of the next generation.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark’s habitat is the coastal waters of South Africa. It resides in rocky crevices along the ocean floor, where it can find shelter, camouflage itself, and hunt for food. This habitat also provides a safe place for the shark to lay its eggs and ensure the continuation of its species. The Pyjama Shark’s home is truly unique and vital for its survival.

Evolution of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a fascinating animal that has evolved over many years. In the beginning, its ancestors were most likely very different from what we see today. They might have been similar to other types of sharks, but with time, their bodies developed unique features that helped them survive in their environment.

As the years went by, the Pyjama Shark’s ancestors adapted to their surroundings. They needed to become excellent hunters to find enough food. So, they developed sharp teeth to catch and eat their prey. These teeth are still a prominent feature of the Pyjama Shark today.

Another important change in the Pyjama Shark’s evolution was the development of their sleek bodies. Over time, they transformed into streamlined swimmers, making it easier for them to move through the water and catch their food. This adaptation gave them an advantage over other animals and helped them survive.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark’s evolution is a remarkable journey. Through natural selection, its ancestors developed sharp teeth for hunting and streamlined bodies for better swimming. These adaptations helped them become successful predators in their environment. Today, the Pyjama Shark continues to thrive thanks to the changes it underwent during its long evolutionary history.

Classification of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a fascinating animal that belongs to the shark family and is native to the coastal waters of southern Africa. It’s called the Pyjama Shark because of its unique pattern of stripes that resembles the pattern found on a pair of pyjamas. These stripes help the shark to camouflage itself in the sandy ocean floor, making it difficult for predators to spot them.

In terms of classification, the Pyjama Shark belongs to the animal kingdom, specifically the class Chondrichthyes, which includes all species of sharks, rays, and chimaeras. Within the class Chondrichthyes, the Pyjama Shark falls under the order Carcharhiniformes and the family Scyliorhinidae. This family includes other species of catsharks, which are small, bottom-dwelling sharks commonly found in shallow coastal waters.

The Pyjama Shark is scientifically known as Poroderma africanum, with “Poroderma” referring to the genus and “africanum” indicating its origin in Africa. This particular species is characterized by its slender body, measuring around 70-90 cm in length. It has a dark grey or brownish color with distinct dark stripes along its body, resembling the iconic pyjama pattern. Their diet mainly consists of small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

To summarize, the Pyjama Shark belongs to the animal kingdom, the class Chondrichthyes, the order Carcharhiniformes, and the family Scyliorhinidae. Found in the coastal waters of southern Africa, this small-bodied shark is recognized by its unique pyjama-like stripes and has a diet consisting of small fish and other marine organisms.

Different Types of Pyjama Shark

The most popular 10 types of Pyjama Shark animals are:

1. Leopard Shark: It has a unique spotted pattern resembling a leopard, with a slender body and a distinctive tail. They are harmless to humans and are commonly found in shallow waters along the coast.

2. Zebra Shark: Known for its beautiful zebra-like stripes, this shark has a long, flattened body and a tail with a fringe-like appearance. They are nocturnal and can be found in coral reefs or sandy areas.

3. Tawny Nurse Shark: This shark is characterized by its sandy brown coloration and rough skin, similar to sandpaper. They have a strong suction ability, allowing them to feed on benthic creatures like crustaceans and small fish.

4. Gray Smoothhound Shark: With a grayish color and a slender body, these sharks are commonly found in shallow coastal waters. They are known for their smooth, scaleless skin, allowing them to glide smoothly through the water.

5. Brownbanded Bamboo Shark: As juveniles, they have brown to black stripes on their body which fade as they grow. These nocturnal sharks have elongated tails and are often found resting or hiding under coral and rocks during the day.

6. Slender Bamboo Shark: With a slender and elongated body, these sharks are well adapted for life on the ocean floor. Their unique ocellated pattern on the skin provides excellent camouflage, making them difficult to spot.

7. Whitespotted Bamboo Shark: These sharks have white spots covering their brownish body, surrounded by a pattern resembling a maze. They are bottom-dwellers, often found in shallow waters buried in the sand during the day.

8. Widebody Catshark: These sharks have a wider body compared to other pyjama sharks. Covered in small, overlapping scales, they have a mottled pattern of various colors. They are often found near coral reefs and rocky areas.

9. Chain Catshark: With a slender body and a chain-like pattern of small black spots along their sides, these sharks are distinctive in appearance. They inhabit deep waters and are rarely seen by humans.

10. Indonesian Speckled Carpetshark: Found in the waters near Indonesia, these sharks have a unique speckled pattern on their body, providing excellent camouflage on sandy or rocky seafloors. They have a broad head and a short, thickset body.

These pyjama shark species display fascinating adaptations for their specific habitats, ensuring their survival and making them popular among divers and marine enthusiasts worldwide.

Geographical Presence of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is mainly found in the waters around southern Africa, particularly along the coast of South Africa. This region is known for its rich marine biodiversity, and the Pyjama Shark is one of the many fascinating species that call this area home. These sharks prefer habitats with rocky bottoms or kelp forests, where they can hide and hunt for their prey, such as small fish and crustaceans.

However, the Pyjama Shark is not found in other parts of the world. They have a limited distribution and are endemic to the coastal waters of southern Africa. This means that if you travel to other regions or countries, you won’t come across this unique species of shark. It is important to remember that different animals have specific habitats and can only survive in certain environments that provide them with the necessary resources for survival.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark is a fascinating species that is found in the waters around southern Africa, particularly along the coast of South Africa. It prefers habitats with rocky bottoms or kelp forests, where it can hide and hunt for prey. However, it is not found in other parts of the world, as it has a limited distribution and is endemic to the coastal waters of southern Africa.

Scientific Name of Pyjama Shark

The scientific name of the Pyjama Shark is Poroderma africanum. This species of shark is commonly found in the coastal waters of southern Africa. The name “Pyjama Shark” is derived from their distinctive pattern, which resembles the striped design of a pair of pyjamas.

Pyjama Sharks are small in size, typically measuring around 3.3 feet (1 meter) in length. They have slender bodies and are characterized by their dark brown or gray coloration with narrow, vertical bands or stripes. These stripes help to camouflage the shark as it rests on the sandy ocean floor during the day.

Like most sharks, Pyjama Sharks are carnivorous and feed on a variety of small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They are known to be somewhat sluggish and prefer to hunt at night. During the day, they bury themselves in the sand to avoid detection from predators.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark, scientifically known as Poroderma africanum, is a small shark species found in the coastal waters of southern Africa. Its distinguishing feature is its striped pattern resembling a pair of pyjamas. This shark species mainly feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods and tends to hide in the sand during the daytime.

Diet of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a creature that lives deep beneath the ocean waves. It has a special diet that helps it survive in its watery home. The Pyjama Shark feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods like squids and octopuses.

The diet of the Pyjama Shark is very important for its survival. Since the Pyjama Shark is not a particularly large shark, it needs to eat smaller prey to get the right amount of energy. It uses its sharp teeth to catch and eat these smaller creatures. The Pyjama Shark is also a night hunter, so it likes to hunt for its food in the darkness of the ocean.

In order to hunt, the Pyjama Shark uses a special technique called “stalking.” It slowly swims towards its prey, taking its time to make sure it doesn’t scare them away. Once it gets close enough, it swiftly attacks, using its strong jaws to snatch up its meal. This method helps the Pyjama Shark catch its food without wasting too much energy.

In conclusion, the Pyjama Shark has a specific diet that helps it survive. It mainly eats small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Its hunting technique called “stalking” helps it catch its prey without wasting too much energy. This diet and hunting strategy are essential for the Pyjama Shark’s survival in its deep-sea habitat.

Locomotion of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a type of fish that lives in the ocean. It has a unique way of moving called locomotion. Locomotion means how an animal moves from one place to another.

The Pyjama Shark uses its fins to swim through the water. It moves by pushing its body side to side and wagging its tail. This helps it to move forward and find food. Sometimes, when it wants to go faster, it can also use its tail to push off the ocean floor. This way, it can glide through the water very quickly!

In summary, the Pyjama Shark uses its fins and tail to swim in the water. It pushes its body side to side and uses its tail to move forward. It can also glide by pushing off the ocean floor. This is how the Pyjama Shark gets around in the big blue ocean!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Pyjama Shark

Pyjama sharks are amazing creatures found in the oceans. They have interesting social and sexual behavior. These sharks live in groups, called schools, and they often swim and hunt together. This behavior helps them survive, as they can protect each other from predators and find food more easily.

Within a school of pyjama sharks, there is a hierarchy, or a system of ranking. The larger and stronger sharks are usually the leaders, while the smaller ones follow their lead. They communicate with each other using body language, such as swimming in certain patterns or flicking their tails. This helps them stay organized and work together effectively.

When it comes to sexual behavior, pyjama sharks have a fascinating mating process. The males usually compete with each other to win the attention of a female. They do this by swimming around the female and trying to impress her with their strength and agility. Once a male succeeds in winning her over, they engage in courtship behavior, which includes swimming close together and even rubbing against each other. Eventually, the female lays eggs, which are protected by the male until they hatch.

In summary, pyjama sharks are social creatures that live in schools and have a hierarchy. They communicate with each other through body language and work together as a team. When it comes to mating, the males compete for the females and engage in courtship behavior. These behaviors help pyjama sharks survive and continue to thrive in their ocean home.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Pyjama Shark

The Pyjama Shark is a fascinating animal that goes through an interesting process called reproduction. It has a life cycle that involves different stages of growth and development. Let’s take a closer look at how these amazing creatures reproduce and go through their life cycle.

The reproduction of Pyjama Sharks involves a process called mating. Male and female Pyjama Sharks come together to reproduce and create new baby sharks. The female lays eggs, which are enclosed in a leathery egg case. These egg cases are often found washed up on beaches. Inside the egg case, baby Pyjama Sharks grow and develop until they are ready to emerge.

Once the baby Pyjama Sharks hatch from their egg cases, they begin their life as independent sharks. They are fully formed and capable of swimming and feeding themselves. As they grow, they go through different stages of development. They gradually become larger and stronger, and their bodies change to better adapt to their environment.

As the Pyjama Sharks continue to grow, they reach maturity. This means that they are fully grown and ready to reproduce. They find a mate and the cycle starts all over again. The process of reproduction and life cycle of Pyjama Sharks is truly fascinating, and it shows us how these incredible creatures are able to continue their species and thrive in their underwater world.

Threats to Pyjama Shark

The pyjama shark is facing several threats that put its survival at risk. One of the biggest threats is overfishing. Many fishermen catch pyjama sharks unintentionally while targeting other fish. These sharks often get caught in fishing nets and are then discarded back into the ocean, but many do not survive this experience. The high demand for seafood is putting a lot of pressure on the pyjama shark population, as they are being caught faster than they can reproduce.

Another threat to the pyjama shark is habitat destruction. These sharks are primarily found in kelp forests, which are underwater areas filled with large, brown seaweed plants called kelp. However, human activities such as pollution, coastal development, and bottom trawling, where fishing nets are dragged along the ocean floor, are destroying these important habitats. Without healthy kelp forests, the pyjama sharks lose their homes and struggle to find enough food to survive.

Climate change is also impacting the pyjama shark population. Rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification are damaging the fragile underwater ecosystems that these sharks rely on. As the temperature increases, the pyjama sharks may have to move to cooler waters, but finding new suitable habitats can be challenging. Additionally, the increasing acidity of the oceans makes it harder for the sharks to form strong shells and skeletons, endangering their overall health and survival.

To protect the pyjama shark, it is crucial for us to address these threats. Implementing sustainable fishing practices, such as using shark exclusion devices in fishing nets, can help reduce unintentional catches. We also need to take action to preserve and restore kelp forests, as they are vital habitats for pyjama sharks and other marine species. Finally, efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions are essential to safeguard the pyjama shark’s future.

Population of Pyjama Shark

The population of the Pyjama Shark animal is not known for sure, but it is believed to be in decline. Scientists estimate that there are only a few thousand Pyjama Sharks left in the wild. These sharks are found off the coast of South Africa, a place where they are often caught as bycatch by fishermen. The Pyjama Shark is a small species, with a length of about 3 feet, and it is known for its unique striped pattern that resembles a sleepwear.

If the Pyjama Shark becomes extinct, it means that there are no more of them left in the world. Extinction can happen when a species is unable to survive in its habitat due to changes in the environment or being overfished. Unfortunately, many species of sharks are facing the threat of extinction due to fishing practices and pollution. It is important for us to protect these animals and their habitats to ensure their survival.

In conclusion, the population of the Pyjama Shark is believed to be decreasing, and it is a species that is at risk of extinction. It is crucial for us to raise awareness about the importance of conserving marine life and taking steps to protect these fascinating creatures.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have explored some fascinating aspects of the Pyjama Shark. These unique creatures have a rich history that goes back millions of years. They can be found in the coastal waters of southern Africa, where they live and hunt for food. Pyjama Sharks are part of the shark family and share many characteristics with other types of sharks.

One of the most intriguing facts about Pyjama Sharks is their size. While they may not be the biggest sharks in the ocean, they can still grow to a length of up to 1.5 meters. These sharks have a distinct appearance with their striped patterns, which resemble the design of pyjamas. It is believed that these stripes help them camouflage and blend into their surroundings.

Pyjama Sharks primarily inhabit rocky reefs and kelp forests, where they can find plenty of prey. They are known to feed on small fish, crustaceans, and even squid. These sharks are not considered dangerous to humans and are generally shy and non-aggressive. Their docile nature makes them a fascinating species to study and observe.

In summary, Pyjama Sharks are captivating creatures, with a long history and interesting characteristics. From their striped appearance to their unique habitat, these sharks continue to capture the curiosity of researchers and marine enthusiasts. Exploring the world of animals like the Pyjama Shark is a wonderful way to gain a greater appreciation for the diversity of life on our planet.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pyjama Shark (FAQ’s)

Q1: What is a Pyjama Shark?

A1: A Pyjama Shark, also known as the Leopard Shark or Happy Shark, is a species of shark found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean.

Q2: What is the scientific name of the Pyjama Shark?

A2: The scientific name of the Pyjama Shark is Poroderma africanum.

Q3: What is the average size of a Pyjama Shark?

A3: The average length of a Pyjama Shark is around 1.2 meters (4 feet).

Q4: What is the characteristic pattern on a Pyjama Shark?

A4: They have a distinctive pattern consisting of dark stripes and spots, resembling a pair of pyjamas.

Q5: What is the diet of a Pyjama Shark?

A5: Pyjama Sharks mostly feed on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Q6: Where are Pyjama Sharks usually found?

A6: Pyjama Sharks are most commonly found along the coasts of South Africa and Namibia.

Q7: Are Pyjama Sharks dangerous to humans?

A7: Pyjama Sharks are harmless to humans and pose no significant threat.

Q8: How long do Pyjama Sharks live?

A8: Pyjama Sharks have a lifespan of about 25 years in the wild.

Q9: Do Pyjama Sharks migrate?

A9: Yes, Pyjama Sharks are known to migrate in search of food and suitable mating grounds.

Q10: Can Pyjama Sharks adapt to different habitats?

A10: Pyjama Sharks are quite adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including rocky reefs and kelp forests.

Q11: How do Pyjama Sharks reproduce?

A11: Pyjama Sharks reproduce through internal fertilization, with the female giving birth to live young.

Q12: Are Pyjama Sharks endangered?

A12: Pyjama Sharks are currently listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Q13: What are the main threats to Pyjama Sharks?

A13: The main threats to Pyjama Sharks include habitat degradation, overfishing, and accidental capture in fishing gear.

Q14: How many Pyjama Sharks are estimated to exist in the wild?

A14: There is currently no accurate estimation of the Pyjama Shark population in the wild.

Q15: Can Pyjama Sharks be kept as pets?

A15: Pyjama Sharks are not suitable for captivity and are best observed in their natural habitat.

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