Argentine angelshark

The Argentine angelshark is an angelshark of the family Squatinidae.

Measurements

Born: N/A.; Mature: ~ 100.0 cm - 120 cm TL; Max: 138 cm TL.

Identification

Colour: Are a purplish-brown color with many scattered dark brown spots, that are mostly in circular groups around a central spot. No ocelli. Obtains paler dorsal fins. Body: Has simple spatulate nasal barbels. Also slightly fringed or a smooth anterior nasal flaps with no triangular lobes on lateral head folds. Has concave between its eyes. Obtains enlarged thorns on snout, and not back. Its pectoral fins are large, broad, and obtusely angular. Convex leading edge forming a very distinct 'shoulder'.

Distribution & range

Southwest Atlantic: from southern Brazil down south to Patagonia. 19°S - 53°S, 68°W - 38°W.

Climate & habitat

Subtropical; continental shelf and upper slope, demersal, marine. Found 50 – 320 m down.

Behaviour

Unknown.

Biology

Diet: Feeds on demersal fishes, shrimp, and squid. Reproduction: Are ovoviviparous, birth about 7 to 11 pups per litter.

Threat to humans

Traumatogenic.

Resilience & vulnerability

Very low, minimum population doubling time more than 14 years; high to very high vulnerability.