Squatina australis Regan, 1906
Australian angelshark
Squatina australis
photo by Last P.R. & W.T. White

Family:  Squatinidae (Angel sharks)
Max. size:  152 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range 15 - 256 m
Distribution:  Eastern Indian Ocean: southern Australia (including New South Wales).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 0-0; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 0-0. Numerous dark spots on lower lobe of caudal fin (Ref. 31369). Pectoral fins greatly enlarged, with broad triangular lobe extending forward from their bases on either side of the gill slits; pelvic fins enlarged and wing-like; caudal very short, nearly symmetrical but not lunate, its lower lobe slightly longer than the upper (Ref. 31369).
Biology:  A common but little-known angelshark found on the continental shelf and uppermost slope, on or near the bottom (Ref. 247, 75154). Occurs from close inshore to 130 m depth (Ref. 31369, 6871). Feeds mainly on small fishes and crustaceans (Ref. 6871). Ovoviviparous (Ref. 247). Flesh is highly esteemed (Ref. 6871).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 06 April 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  traumatogenic
Country info:   
 


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