A rare deep-sea cartilaginous fish species endemic to the southern Australian marine ecosystem, characterized by distinctive morphological features and deep oceanic habitat.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Occurs in deep continental slope waters of southern Australia, typically at depths between 400-1,200 meters, preferring cold temperate marine environments with rocky substrate and low light conditions.
Ecological Role
Plays a critical role in deep-sea food webs as a mid-level predator, contributing to marine ecosystem balance and biodiversity in the Southern Ocean region.
Morphology
- SKIN COAT Smooth, scaleless skin with a grayish-blue coloration, providing camouflage in deep marine environments
- LIMBS WINGS Broad pectoral fins for efficient underwater maneuvering, single dorsal fin with prominent spine
- HEAD SENSORY Advanced electroreceptive ampullae of Lorenzini, enabling precise prey detection in low-visibility deep-sea conditions
- BODY STRUCTURE Elongated cartilaginous body with a distinctive long spine, total length approximately 60-80 cm, streamlined hydrodynamic profile adapted for deep-sea environments
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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