Lesser Spotted Dogfish
Scyliorhinus canicula
Habitat: Sandy, muddy and gravelly sea floor
Depth: 1-100m
Food: Crabs, shrimps, molluscs, small fish and squid
Length: Up to 75cm
Lifespan: 12 year
Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
Dogfish are the most common of Scottish sharks, members of the catshark family. Nocturnal hunters, dogfish usually rest on the seabed during the day. Their teeth are small and point inwards, but strong enough to crush crabs and tear up fish. The female lays mermaids’ purses – tough egg cases that protect one developing youngster inside.