Scyliorhinus meadi

Description

Not to be confused with Asymbolus funebris, also known as the blotched catshark. The blotched catshark (Scyliorhinus mead) is a little-known species of catshark, and part of the family Scyliorhinidae, found in the western central Atlantic Ocean. It inhabits banks of deep-sea coral at depths of 329–548 m (1,079–1,798 ft), feeding on cephalopods, shrimp, and bony fishes. This species can be identified by its wide body and head, and the dark saddle-like markings on its back. It also has small spots that fluoresce yellow under a blue light. Adult blotched catsharks have not been observed; the largest immature specimen is 49 cm (19 in) long. Like other catsharks, it is believed to be oviparous. This species is not dangerous to humans and has no commercial significance; the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) does not have enough data to assess its conservation status.