Squatina aculeata

Squatina aculeata, commonly known as the sawback angelshark or spiny angelshark, is a critically endangered species of angelshark found in the Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic Ocean. This bottom-dwelling elasmobranch is characterized by its flattened body, enlarged pectoral fins, and distinctive spiny projections along its back and sides. The species inhabits sandy and muddy substrates on continental shelves and slopes, typically at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to several hundred meters.

Sawback angelsharks are ambush predators that bury themselves in sediment to capture small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The species has experienced severe population declines throughout its range, primarily due to intensive fishing pressure from bottom trawling and other commercial fishing activities. As a slow-growing species with late sexual maturity and low reproductive rates, Squatina aculeata is particularly vulnerable to overexploitation.

The species has been subject to both targeted fishing and significant bycatch mortality in Mediterranean fisheries. Conservation efforts include legal protection measures in some regions, fishing restrictions, and habitat protection initiatives. Several Mediterranean countries have implemented species-specific conservation plans, and the species is listed under various international conservation frameworks.

Research programs focus on population monitoring, habitat mapping, and developing fishing gear modifications to reduce bycatch. Despite these efforts, the species continues to face significant challenges, and coordinated international conservation action remains essential for preventing extinction.

Squatina aculeata inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms on continental shelves and slopes in the Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic Ocean. The species typically occurs at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to several hundred meters, preferring areas with soft substrates where it can bury itself for ambush predation.