It is found in the tropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean between latitudes 13° N and 33° S, at depths between 3 and 70 m. It has been recorded in the following countries: Aruba, Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.

It is considered a vulnerable species in Brazil due to intensive fishing although it may actually classify at a higher level.

The flesh is eaten for food but the fins are not used as they are too small.

Other threats include water pollution from plastic litter and three specimens have been found with plastic collars on their head or gills.

Research showed the shark may be an important predator of demersal and pelagic prey.