angelshark

The angelshark is a species of shark belonging to the family Squatinidae, commonly known as angel sharks. These bottom-dwelling predators are characterized by their flattened, ray-like bodies, which resemble those of rays but distinguish them as sharks due to their five pairs of gill slits and presence of spines on their dorsal fins. Angel sharks are found in temperate and tropical coastal waters worldwide, typically inhabiting sandy or muddy seabeds at depths ranging from a few meters to over 200 meters.

Angel sharks exhibit a cryptic lifestyle, burying themselves partially in the substrate to ambush prey such as fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Their camouflage allows them to remain nearly invisible to both predators and prey. They possess a unique feeding mechanism, where their wide mouths and flexible jaws enable them to engulf prey whole. Growth rates vary by species, with some reaching maturity in a few years, while others take longer, and their sizes range from around 1 to 2 meters in length, depending on the species.

There are several recognized species of angelshark, including the European angelshark (*Squatina squatina*), the most critically endangered shark species globally, and the Japanese angelshark (*Squatina japonica*). Conservation efforts are crucial due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and bycatch in commercial fisheries. Many angelshark populations have declined significantly, leading to protective measures such as fishing bans and habitat conservation initiatives.

Angel sharks are oviparous, laying large, egg cases that resemble leather pouches, often found attached to seagrass or coral. These eggs are highly vulnerable to predation and environmental disturbances. Despite their elusive nature, angelsharks play an important role in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. Their decline can disrupt food webs, highlighting the need for continued research and conservation efforts to ensure their survival.