Fin's Fish Guide
The Hidden angelshark (Squatina occulta) is a saltwater fish of the family Squatinidae that grows up to 130 cm.
Description
The hidden angelshark is an angelshark (Squatinidae) from coastal waters of the southwest Atlantic off Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. The species grows to about 1.3 metres and has a strongly flattened body with broad, wing-like pectoral fins, so it resembles a ray, but with the mouth at the front as in a shark. As a motionless ambush hunter it lies buried in sand and snaps lightning-fast at passing fish and squid. When handled or stepped on it can bite fiercely; through fishing it is strongly endangered.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hidden angelshark?
The Hidden angelshark has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Hidden angelshark live?
The Hidden angelshark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
How big does the Hidden angelshark get?
The Hidden angelshark grows to a maximum of about 130 cm.
Is the Hidden angelshark dangerous to humans?
The Hidden angelshark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. For a bite: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, stop the bleeding with pressure and cover with a sterile dressing. A fish bite easily becomes infected; clean it carefully and for a deep or extensive wound see a doctor and check tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Squatina
More from the family Squatinidae
Want the complete picture on the Hidden angelshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hidden angelshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.