Spiny Dogfish (Squalus acanthias)
Image Copyright BB Divers
Observed: Koh Chang Reefs,
Observed By: BB Divers
The spiny dogfish is a member of the squalidae or dogfish family of sharks. It is found in many parts of the world usually in shallow waters.
The male shark doesn’t mature until around 11 years of age butthe female is not mature until around 18-21 years of age. They grow to a maximum length of 99 – 159cm and are thought to live for up to 100 years. Their young gestate for between 18 and 24 months which is thought to be the longest of any known animal.
The spiny dogfish used to be the most abundant species of shark in the world but overfishing has led to dramatic decreases in numbers.
