Fin's Fish Guide
The Dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 100 cm.
North Sea, northeast Atlantic from Ireland to Portugal, the Mediterranean Sea and the northwest African coast.
Description
The lesser-spotted dogfish is a small, slender catshark of the family Scyliorhinidae reaching about 100 cm. The elongate, brownish body is densely covered with numerous small dark spots and sometimes a few paler flecks. The two dorsal fins are set far back. The dogfish lives on the continental shelf of the North Sea, north-eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, usually between 80 and 100 m, and is active at night; by day it rests on the bottom or in crevices. It feeds on benthic invertebrates and small fish. The species is oviparous, laying leathery egg cases with anchoring tendrils. The dogfish is regularly eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dogfish?
The Dogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, slender catshark densely covered with many small dark spots; lays leathery egg cases with tendrils ('mermaid's purses').
Where does the Dogfish live?
The Dogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Sea, northeast Atlantic from Ireland to Portugal, the Mediterranean Sea and the northwest African coast.
How big does the Dogfish get?
The Dogfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Dogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dogfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dogfish edible?
Yes, the Dogfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Dogfish 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 Scyliorhinus
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.