Discovery Channel

Pacific Angelshark

Angelshark

Pacific angelshark (NHPA)
Pacific Angelshark

Squatina californica

Order: Squatiniformes

Sometimes called the monkfish because of the supposed resemblance of the shape of its head to a monk’s hood, the Pacific angelshark is a bottom-dwelling fish that buries itself in sandy or muddy seabeds by day. Its distinctive flattened shape and excellent camouflage allows it to hide itself from unsuspecting prey, which it ambushes as they swim nearby.

Like many sharks with a flattened body shape, the angelshark is often mistaken for a ray or skate. Although they are quite separate groups, sharks and rays are nonetheless closely related and share many important characteristics, including a cartilaginous skeleton.

Maximum size: 150cm / 27kg.

Distribution: Eastern Pacific ocean, in coastal waters of the Americas.

Diet: Mostly bony fishes, although it also eats squid, octopus and crustaceans.

Reproduction: Viviparous. Litters between one and twelve pups.

Photo: NHPA
close


Fill out the form below to send this page to a friend

You can add extra friends by clicking on the plus button below.


Your Name:


Your Email Address: (*)


Recipient's Name:


Recipient's Address: (*)



Second Recipient's Name:


Second Recipient's Address: (*)



Third Recipient's Name:


Third Recipient's Address: (*)



Fourth Recipient's Name:


Fourth Recipient's Address: (*)



Fifth Recipient's Name:


Fifth Recipient's Address: (*)

add/remove recipient  
Your Message:


(*) Indicates a mandatory field