Fin's Fish Guide
The Angular rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) is a saltwater fish of the family Oxynotidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay and the Mediterranean Sea southwards to Senegal, with northern records as far as Cornwall.
Description
The angular roughshark is a remarkable, stocky deep-sea shark of the family Oxynotidae reaching about 150 cm. The body is high and almost triangular in cross-section, with two large, sail-like dorsal fins each bearing a spine, and a very rough, abrasive skin. The colour is uniform grey to grey-brown. The species lives on the outer continental shelf and upper slope of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean and is a suction feeder that mainly takes worm-like prey such as polychaetes. Because of heavy fishing and slow reproduction the angular roughshark is assessed as Endangered across its range.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angular rough shark?
The Angular rough shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Bizarre, tall and stocky deep-sea shark with two large, sail-shaped dorsal fins with a spine and rough, abrasive skin; sucks up worm-like prey.
Where does the Angular rough shark live?
The Angular rough shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay and the Mediterranean Sea southwards to Senegal, with northern records as far as Cornwall.
How big does the Angular rough shark get?
The Angular rough shark grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 55 cm.
Is the Angular rough shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Angular rough shark is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Angular rough shark edible?
The Angular rough shark is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxynotus
More from the family Oxynotidae
Want the complete picture on the Angular rough shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angular rough shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.