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Spurdog

Spurdog ©Peter Verhoog

Spurdog shark

Scientific name: Squalus acanthias
This slender shark gets its name from the spines in front of its dorsal fin. It can use these spines to defend itself by curling in a bow and striking at a predator.

Species information

Statistics

Length: Up to 1.6 m
Weight: Up to 9.1 kg
Average Lifespan: Can live for up to 75 years

Conservation status

The spurdog is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List and is a Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.

When to see

Present all year round

About

Also known as the spiny dogfish, the spurdog is a predator that feeds on bony fish, and sometimes even smaller sharks! It is a migratory species that spends the winter months in deep water, and the summer months in warm coastal waters.

They often travel in groups which makes them an easier target for fisheries. It's difficult for these sharks to recover from overfishing, because they are very slow to reproduce, typically having 1 litter of pups every 2 years.

How to identify

The Spurdog shark has a pointed snout, large eyes, and spines in front of its dorsal fins. Its streamlined body is a grey/brown colour on top with a lighter belly and rows of white spots down its sides.

Distribution

Found in the Irish Sea and Northeast Atlantic, and in temperate waters world-wide.

Habitats

Did you know?

Female spurdog sharks have one of the longest pregnancies of any vertebrate, lasting between 18-22 months.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts are working with sea users, scientists, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust or checking out our Action Pages.