Fin's Fish Guide
The Cuban dogfish (Squalus cubensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Squalidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The Cuban dogfish is a small dogfish of the family Squalidae from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 1.1 metres and has a slender, grey body with large green eyes and a stout spine before each dorsal fin. It inhabits the continental shelves and upper slopes at 60 to 380 metres and sometimes forms schools. As a bottom predator it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and squid. Reproduction is ovoviviparous. The dorsal spines bear a weak venom; a sting gives a painful wound, so handle a caught specimen with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cuban dogfish?
The Cuban dogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large green eyes and a sturdy spine in front of each dorsal fin carrying a weak venom.
Where does the Cuban dogfish live?
The Cuban dogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; continental shelves and upper slopes (60-380 m).
How big does the Cuban dogfish get?
The Cuban dogfish grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 75 cm.
Is the Cuban dogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cuban dogfish is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Cuban dogfish edible?
The Cuban dogfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Squalus
More from the family Squalidae
Want the complete picture on the Cuban dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cuban dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.