Sawback Angelshark

Squatina aculeata

Sawback Angelshark

A flattened, raylike shark that lies buried in muddy bottoms with only its eyes showing, ready to ambush passing small sharks and jacks. A ridge of sharp thorns runs down its back, giving it its name. Heavy fishing pressure has pushed it to critically endangered, and it bears live young.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Squatiniformes › Squatinidae › Squatina

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 105926.

FAQ

How deep does the Sawback Angelshark live?
The Sawback Angelshark (Squatina aculeata) is typically found at 30–500 m.
Is the Sawback Angelshark dangerous to divers?
The Sawback Angelshark is harmless to divers.
How big does the Sawback Angelshark get?
The Sawback Angelshark grows to about 1.9 m.