Fin's Fish Guide
The Velvet belly (Etmopterus spinax) is a saltwater fish of the family Etmopteridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The velvet belly lanternshark is a small deep-sea shark of the family Etmopteridae reaching about 60 cm. It is named for its velvety-black underside, covered with light organs (photophores) that camouflage the shark in the dim depths. A spine stands in front of each of the two dorsal fins. The velvet belly lives on the outer continental shelf and upper slope of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, usually between 200 and 500 m, hunting small fish, squid and crustaceans. It is ovoviviparous, bearing 6 to 20 pups per litter. Fishing pressure has left the species assessed as Vulnerable.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Velvet belly?
The Velvet belly has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Small deep-sea shark with light-producing organs (photophores) on the black belly and a spine in front of each dorsal fin.
Where does the Velvet belly live?
The Velvet belly lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Iceland to Gabon and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Velvet belly get?
The Velvet belly grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Velvet belly dangerous to humans?
No, the Velvet belly is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Velvet belly edible?
The Velvet belly 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 Etmopterus
More from the family Etmopteridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Velvet belly is one of 12,519 species in the app.