Fin's Fish Guide
The Hooktooth dogfish (Aculeola nigra) is a saltwater fish of the family Etmopteridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The hooktooth dogfish is a small deep-sea shark from the eastern Pacific, off the west coast of South America. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a slender, blackish body, large eyes and characteristic hook-shaped teeth in both jaws. As a near-bottom hunter it lives on the continental slope, at depths between roughly 110 and 560 metres, and feeds on small fish and crustaceans. It bears live young. The shark is harmless to humans and is sometimes landed as bycatch. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hooktooth dogfish?
The Hooktooth dogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Slender blackish body with hook-shaped teeth; deep-sea shark
Where does the Hooktooth dogfish live?
The Hooktooth dogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Hooktooth dogfish get?
The Hooktooth dogfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Hooktooth dogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hooktooth dogfish 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 Hooktooth dogfish edible?
The Hooktooth dogfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hooktooth dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hooktooth dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Etmopteridae
Want the complete picture on the Hooktooth dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hooktooth dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.