Fin's Fish Guide
The Swell shark (Cephaloscyllium ventriosum) is a saltwater fish of the family Scyliorhinidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The swellshark is a catshark from the eastern Pacific, from central California to the Gulf of California and southern Mexico, and off central Chile. The species grows to about 110 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with dark blotches. When threatened it can inflate its stomach with water or air, so that it looks larger and wedges itself among rocks; from this behaviour it takes its name. It is nocturnal, by day sometimes resting in piles, and hunts bottom fish. It lays eggs in horny capsules. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Swell shark?
The Swell shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Inflates its stomach with water or air when threatened; lays eggs in horny capsules
Where does the Swell shark live?
The Swell shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Swell shark get?
The Swell shark grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Swell shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Swell shark 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 Swell shark edible?
The Swell shark is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephaloscyllium
More from the family Scyliorhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Swell shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Swell shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.