TaxonHub
Whitespot Ghostshark

Whitespot Ghostshark

Hydrolagus alphus

A rare chimaeroid species endemic to the Galapagos Islands, characterized by its unique morphological features and deep-sea habitat.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Deep marine environments around the Galapagos Islands, typically at depths between 300-800 meters in rocky, continental shelf regions

Ecological Role

Plays a critical role in deep-sea ecosystem balance as a predator, contributing to marine food web dynamics and biodiversity

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Smooth, pale gray-white skin with distinctive white spots, providing camouflage in deep marine habitats
  • LIMBS WINGS Broad, wing-like pectoral fins used for gliding through deep-sea environments; single dorsal fin with venomous spine
  • HEAD SENSORY Large, prominent eyes adapted for low-light conditions; electroreceptive ampullary system for detecting prey
  • BODY STRUCTURE Elongated cartilaginous body with a distinctively smooth, torpedo-shaped form; typically reaches 50-70 cm in total length
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: A. C. Tatarinov
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Related Species in Chimaeridae