description Japanese angelshark Overview
The Japanese angelshark, Squatina japonica, is a bottom-dwelling shark in the family Squatinidae. It occurs in the northwestern Pacific, including waters around Japan, the Korean Peninsula, coastal China, and Taiwan. Its flattened body and cryptic coloration help it remain concealed on the seabed, where it ambushes smaller animals from close range.
help Japanese angelshark FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Japanese angelshark?
Its scientific name is Squatina japonica. It is a member of the family Squatinidae, whose flattened sharks resemble rays.
Where does the Japanese angelshark live?
It occurs in the northwestern Pacific, including waters around Japan, Korea, the Yellow Sea, northern China, and Taiwan. FishBase classifies it as a marine, demersal species, meaning it lives close to the seabed.
How does the Japanese angelshark ambush prey?
Its flattened body and cryptic coloration help it disappear against the sea floor. Like other angelsharks, it can remain concealed and strike upward when prey comes within range.
Is the Japanese angelshark a ray or a shark?
It is a shark, not a ray, despite its ray-like body shape. Its placement in the order Squatiniformes reflects this unusual flattened form.
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