Slender shark species which can be grey to brown on back and flanks with sometimes with white spots and has a pale underbelly. Prominent pectoral fins which lack rays, spines or segments and no anal fin is present. Two dorsal fins, both of which contain a spike which secretes venom. Five gill slits are present on each side of the body.
Distribution
Found in temperate waters around most of the UK, but more prominent around the western coast of England, Scotland and Ireland. Spurdog are also found in many other places around the world
Feeds On
Fish such as small flounder, plaice, codling and sprats, but will also feed fish that swim in midwater such as herring and eat small crustaceans.
- Scientific name: Squalus acanthias
- Also known as: Spiny Dogfish, Spiked Dogfish, Cape Shark, Piked Dogfish.
- Size: Up to 4ft and 20lbs (UK shore caught typically 5-10lbs)
- UK minimum size: 23inches (58cm) in length
- UK shore caught record: 16lb 12oz
- IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)
