Very slender body with a long anal fin. Two small dorsal fins. Origin of first dorsal fin over the free ends of the pelvic fins.
Coloration
Different shaped saddles, dark spots over the entire body and fins. Tips of dorsal fins and caudal fin white. Dark colored around mouth.
Distribution
Eastern Atlantic: Faroe Islands, Norway to Senegal. Mediterranean.
Biology
Common in deep water, close to bottom. Lives preferably on the upper slopes between 200 m and 500 m, down to 1000 m. Some individuals may be found in shallower areas (up to 50 m).
Diet
Bottom-living invertebrates, small fishes.
Size
Average size between 60 cm and 80 cm. Maximum total length about 90 cm.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg laying). Up to 13 pups per litter. Males reach sexual maturity with a size of 35 cm to 40 cm, females between 40 cm and 45 cm.
Similar Species
Some species of the same genus have a similar appearance but the long anal fin is very distinctive.
Vulnerability
Category:Least Concern (LC) Criteria: - Last evaluated:2021 Trend:
