Long body with two dorsal fins set very far back on body and prominent pectoral fins. As a shark species fins are not segmented with rays or spines and multiple gill slits are present on both sides of the body. Colour is generally brownish to yellow with large spots across the body. Mouth set quite far back on underside and nasal grooves do not reach the mouth. Underside pale/white.
Distribution
Found primarily along the southern and western coasts of the British Isles, although can turn up elsewhere. Also present from Scandinavia, throughout the Mediterranean and along the northern coast of the African continent.
Feeds On
Small fish, sandeels and cuttlefish, but will also eat crabs, prawns and marine worms and shellfish.
- Scientific name: Scyliorhinus stellaris
- Also known as: Greater-spotted Dogfish, Large-spotted Catshark, Nursehound, Rough Hound. When sold as food they may be know as Rock Salmon, Rock Eel or Flake.
- Size: up to 5ft and 20lbs. Shore caught typically 3ft and 4 – 8lbs.
- UK minimum size: 23inches/58cm in length
- UK shore caught record: 19lb 14oz
- IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)
