Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled smoothhound (Mustelus mento) is a saltwater fish of the family Triakidae that grows up to 141 cm.
Description
The speckled smoothhound is a houndshark (Triakidae) from coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, off South America. The species grows to about 1.4 metres and has a slender, greyish body studded with fine white spots. As a bottom-oriented predator it lives over sand and rocky bottoms of shallow coastal water and crushes crabs, lobsters, molluscs and small fish with rounded teeth. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled smoothhound?
The Speckled smoothhound has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Speckled smoothhound live?
The Speckled smoothhound lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Chile, Juan Fernández, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., Peru
How big does the Speckled smoothhound get?
The Speckled smoothhound grows to a maximum of about 141 cm.
Is the Speckled smoothhound dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled smoothhound 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 Speckled smoothhound edible?
Yes, the Speckled smoothhound is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mustelus
More from the family Triakidae
Want the complete picture on the Speckled smoothhound?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled smoothhound is one of 12,519 species in the app.