Squalidae

noun

Distribution: Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, boreal to tropical. Both dorsal fins with spines, not grooved; teeth on lower jaw not much larger than those on upper jaw; upper precaudal pit usually present; caudal peduncle with a pair of lateral keels.

The family Squalidae belongs to the Class Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays) and the Order Squaliformes. It contains 2 genera and 10 species. It may be found in Marine environments and is primarily Marine. Members of this family are not used in the aquarium trade. Reproductively, most members of this family are bearers. The main mode of swimming of adult fish in this family is subcarangiform. Compared with other fish, the activity level of this family tends to be normal. Members of this family have been dated back to the Cretaceous period. Etymology of this family name: Latin, squaleo, squalidus = with rough skin. 1591