Angular angelshark

Angular angelshark
Conservation status
Endangered  (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Chondrichthyes
Subclass:	Elasmobranchii
Order:	Squatiniformes
Family:	Squatinidae
Genus:	Squatina
Species:	S. guggenheim
Binomial name
Squatina guggenheim Marini, 1936
Range of Angular angelshark (in blue)
Synonyms
Squatina punctata Marini, 1936

Angular angelshark or Squantina guggenheim is a species of shark in the Squantinidae family. They are found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina living in marine, brackish, and demersal environments at depths of 4-360 m. Their typical food sources consist of bony fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

Morphology

Squantina guggenheim is shaped like a ray and in males, a spiny surface is located on its pectoral fins. However, this spiny surface is absent in females and younglings. This spiny structure is thought to help males hold females while mating. Both males and females range from 89-130 cm in length. Squantina guggenheim have 18-22 teeth in the upper and lower jaw.

Life Cycle

Squantina guggenheim like some Chondrichthyes is ovoviviparous. The right ovary has been found to have few oocytes and is non-functional. Pregnancy lasts for 9-12 months and litters typically consist of 3-9 pups. Birth is given in shallow waters.

Distribution

Squantina guggenheim is found in the Southwestern Atlantic. They are abundant along the coast of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. This area is a subtropical zone and is at a latitude of 20°S - 45°S and a longitude of 68°W - 40°W. Typically, S. guggenheim are found in sandy or muddy areas of the ocean floor.

Conservation

S. guggenheim is considered an endangered species by the IUCN red list due to overfishing and are more susceptible due to the fact they are bottom dwellers. In addition, it may be possible females leave their young earlier on due to the stresses induced from fishing. Currently, Brazil has not taken any action in helping restore this species population.