Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackmouth catshark (Galeus melastomus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Norway to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea, along continental slopes in deeper water.
Description
The blackmouth catshark is a slender deep-sea catshark of the family Scyliorhinidae reaching about 75 cm. The brownish body bears a row of dark saddle blotches and spots on the back, and the inside of the mouth is strikingly black, giving the species its name. It lives along continental slopes of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, usually between about 200 and nearly 2000 metres. On and above the bottom it hunts crustaceans, squid and small fish. The species is egg-laying and deposits eggs in horny capsules throughout the year. It is harmless to people and is landed mainly as bycatch of deep-sea fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackmouth catshark?
The Blackmouth catshark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Slender deep-sea catshark with a row of dark saddle blotches on the back and a conspicuous black mouth lining on the inside of the mouth.
Where does the Blackmouth catshark live?
The Blackmouth catshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Norway to West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea, along continental slopes in deeper water.
How big does the Blackmouth catshark get?
The Blackmouth catshark grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Blackmouth catshark dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackmouth catshark is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackmouth catshark edible?
The Blackmouth catshark is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blackmouth catshark and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Galeus
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackmouth catshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackmouth catshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.