Fin's Fish Guide
The Black dogfish (Centroscyllium fabricii) is a saltwater fish of the family Etmopteridae that grows up to 107 cm.
Cool Atlantic Ocean; outer continental shelves and upper slopes, usually below 275 m.
Description
The black dogfish is a small deep-sea shark of the lanternshark family (Etmopteridae) from the cool Atlantic. The species grows to about 107 cm and has a uniform black-brown body with light-producing organs (photophores) on the belly. It lives on the outer continental shelves and upper slopes, mostly below 275 metres, but may rise closer to the surface at high latitudes. A grooved spine stands before each dorsal fin. As a predator it feeds on fishes, squid and crustaceans. Owing to its deep habits the species is rarely encountered by people and is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black dogfish?
The Black dogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Luminous photophores on the belly and a grooved spine in front of each dorsal fin; deep-sea shark.
Where does the Black dogfish live?
The Black dogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Cool Atlantic Ocean; outer continental shelves and upper slopes, usually below 275 m.
How big does the Black dogfish get?
The Black dogfish grows to a maximum of about 107 cm. On average the species is around 84 cm.
Is the Black dogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black dogfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black dogfish edible?
The Black dogfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Centroscyllium
More from the family Etmopteridae
Want the complete picture on the Black dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.