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Spotted Ratfish

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description Spotted Ratfish Overview

The Spotted Ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) is a species of chimaera, a cartilaginous fish related to sharks and rays, found along the Pacific coast of North America from Alaska to Baja California. It inhabits continental shelf and slope waters, typically occurring near the seafloor. The species is recognizable by its large eyes, grinding tooth plates, iridescent silvery-bronze coloring marked with white spots, and a slender whip-like tail. A venomous spine at the leading edge of the dorsal fin serves as a defensive mechanism.

help Spotted Ratfish FAQ

What is a spotted ratfish?

The spotted ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) is a species of chimaera, a type of cartilaginous fish related to sharks and rays. It gets its name from its rat-like tail and is found along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California.

Are spotted ratfish dangerous to humans?

Yes, the spotted ratfish possesses a venomous dorsal spine located at the front of its dorsal fin. This spine is primarily used for defense against predators and can deliver a painful sting to humans who handle the fish carelessly.

How deep do spotted ratfish live?

Spotted ratfish are typically found in the Pacific Ocean at depths ranging from shallow waters down to about 3,000 feet. They prefer to live near the ocean floor where they can hunt for their preferred prey, such as crabs and clams.

What do spotted ratfish look like?

Spotted ratfish are recognizable by their iridescent silver-bronze skin covered in small, dark spots. They have large, rabbit-like eyes, a broad pectoral fin, and a long, tapering tail that resembles a rat's tail.

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