Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotchy swellshark (Cephaloscyllium umbratile) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Japan, Korea (North), Korea (South) and others
Description
The blotchy swellshark is a catshark (Scyliorhinidae) from coastal and slope waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 1.2 metres and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with dark saddle blotches and spots. When threatened it can swallow water or air and swell into a hard-to-grip ball. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lives on rocky and sandy bottoms and eats fish, crustaceans and molluscs. It lays egg capsules. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotchy swellshark?
The Blotchy swellshark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Blotchy swellshark live?
The Blotchy swellshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Japan, Korea (North), Korea (South) and others
How big does the Blotchy swellshark get?
The Blotchy swellshark grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Blotchy swellshark dangerous to humans?
No, the Blotchy swellshark is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blotchy swellshark edible?
Yes, the Blotchy swellshark is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephaloscyllium
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Blotchy swellshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotchy swellshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.