angelshark
| Scientific name | Squatina squatina |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Linnaeus |
| Year of description | 1758 |
| IUCN category | CR |
| Family | Squatinidae |
| Genus | Squatina |
Introduction
Squatina squatina, commonly known as angelshark, is a salt water fish.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size150 cm
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Maximum size245 cm
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Mimicrysand
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Patternponctuations
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Average size150 cm
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Maximum size245 cm
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Mimicrysand
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Patternponctuations
How to recognize the angelshark ?
The angelshark measures around 150 cm. The females are more imposing and some specimens can reach 245 cm. This fish is unicolore with a predominantly marron, beige and gris body. The also has blanc ponctuations.
Sexual dimorphism
The female is bigger than the male.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietcarnivorous
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Sociabilitysolitary
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territorialYes
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Way of livingnocturnal
The angelshark is a fish solitary naturally found on the bottom. This species is carnivorous . This fish lives mainly at night. Usually, it leaves its hiding place and starts to be active once it gets dark.
This species is territorial and does not appreciate the presence of intruders nearby, especially animals with similar behavior. However, the angelshark has little concern for non-territorial animals.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovovivipare
The angelshark is a fish ovovivipare.
Risks for humans
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VenomousNo
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BiteYes
This species can attack if it feels threatened. It is important to be particularly vigilant especially during dives or fishing sessions.
Where to find it?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature15 - 25 °C
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Depth5 - 150 m
Biotope presentation
The angelshark is most often found at a depth between 5m and 150m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths.
To go further
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Benoit Chartrer
Silvia Gomez
Julie Magnus
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Tags
Same genus
eastern angel shark
Squatinidae
Species of the same biotope
Scientific partners