Spotted Ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei)

The Spotted Ratfish or Hydrolagus colliei is actually a shark with venomous spines on the edge of their dorsal fins.  These deep sea fish are found in the Pacific Ocean at depths of up to 3,000 feet deep, but like other Ratfish they will often move into shallower waters during the spring and autumn months.

Spotted Ratfish can grow to about 1-1/2' long (91cm), with the females being the larger of the two.  As you can see in the pictures, they have large pectoral fins that almost look like wings.  They have a very long caudal fin (tail) which is how they got their name, the Ratfish.  Their bodies are dark with white spots and light colored fins.  One thing you will notice right away about these fish if you see encounter them underwater is their glowing green eyes much like a cat!  You can check out the Spotted Ratfish for yourself in the video below... 

Spotted Ratfish feed on shrimp, worms and other small fish. They fall prey to Pacific Halibut and some small to medium sized sharks.  If you have any questions or comments about the Spotted Ratfish please share!