The Ichihara's velvet dogfish (Zameus ichiharai) is a fish of the family Somniosidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
Ichihara's velvet dogfish is a deep-sea shark (Somniosidae) from cool, deep waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a slender, dark brown-black body with a velvety skin of fine, densely set scales and large eyes. As a sluggish hunter of the deep water it feeds on small fish, squid and crustaceans. Through its deep way of life it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ichihara's velvet dogfish?
The Ichihara's velvet dogfish is mainly black.
Where does the Ichihara's velvet dogfish live?
The Ichihara's velvet dogfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Ichihara's velvet dogfish get?
The Ichihara's velvet dogfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Ichihara's velvet dogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ichihara's velvet 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.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Somniosidae

Want the complete picture on the Ichihara's velvet dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ichihara's velvet dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.