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Spiny dogfish

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description Spiny dogfish Overview

The spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) is a small species of shark found in temperate and subarctic coastal waters worldwide, including the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is distinguished by the sharp, venom-bearing spine located in front of each dorsal fin, which gives the species its common name. Spiny dogfish are schooling fish and are among the most abundant shark species, though they are slow-growing and have a gestation period of roughly 18 to 24 months. The species has been commercially important for food in Europe and elsewhere.

help Spiny dogfish FAQ

Are spiny dogfish dangerous to humans?

While they are generally not considered aggressive, spiny dogfish possess a mildly venomous spine on their dorsal fins. If a human handles them carelessly, the sharp spine can cause painful wounds.

Why is the spiny dogfish known as Squalus acanthias?

Squalus acanthias is the scientific name assigned to the species, where "acanthias" refers to its characteristic defensive spines. This temperate-water shark is one of the most widely recognized and well-documented dogfish species in the world.

How long does it take for a spiny dogfish to reproduce?

The spiny dogfish has one of the longest gestation periods of any vertebrate, lasting anywhere from 18 to 24 months. Because they grow and reproduce so slowly, their populations are highly vulnerable to overfishing.

What do spiny dogfish eat?

They are opportunistic feeders that primarily prey on small fish, squid, and various crustaceans. They often hunt in large packs, which allows them to overwhelm larger schools of prey like herring.

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