Smoothback Angelshark
Squatina oculata
- Group: Shark
- Typical depth: 5 to 500 m
- Max size: 1.6 m
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: CR
A flattened, ray like shark that buries itself in sand and mud on the shelf and upper slope, lying still to ambush small fishes that pass overhead. It reaches about a metre and a half and bears live young, and heavy fishing pressure has left it critically endangered.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Squatiniformes › Squatinidae › Squatina
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 105927.
FAQ
- How deep does the Smoothback Angelshark live?
- The Smoothback Angelshark (Squatina oculata) is typically found at 5 to 500 m.
- Is the Smoothback Angelshark dangerous to divers?
- The Smoothback Angelshark can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Smoothback Angelshark get?
- The Smoothback Angelshark grows to about 1.6 m.