Squatina californica

Distinguishing Characteristics:

  • Distinctive shape—flat body with eyes on top of the head
  • Large spiracle behind eyes
  • Large pectoral fins
  • Gills on the sides, close together and located just in front of the pectoral fins
  • Color gray to reddish-brown above, speckled with dark spots; white below

Habitat: Cold to warm-temperate waters; on the continental shelf, usually at depths of 10 to 328 feet. They are often found buried in mud or sand, with only the upper parts visible.

Size: To about 5 feet

Note: The Pacific angel shark is also known as the “monkfish” because the shape of its head resembles the hood on a monk’s cloak.


Pacific angel sharks look a lot like rays though they have their gill slits on the sides of their heads rather than underneath like rays. (Source: MarineBio)