Taiwan Angelshark

About the Taiwan Angelshark

The Taiwan Angelshark is found only in the waters around Taiwan and Japan. Their scientific name comes from the traditional name for Taiwan, Formosa. This species is categorized as endangered by the IUCN as they suspect there has been a reduction of between 50% and 80% of the population. Whilst they are not specifically sought after, they are particularly susceptible to getting caught by trawlers due to their bottom-dwelling nature.

Like other Angelsharks, the Taiwanese variety is an ambush predator. They lie still on the ocean floor, buried in the sand, and wait until their prey is in reach before striking. They are usually found at depths between 100 and 300 meters.

They have flat, widebodies, which is a feature of all Angelsharks. They are dark in colour on the dorsal side but their abdomens are much paler, almost white. This little-known species is thought to be fully grown at around 1-2 meters.

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Taiwan Angelshark Gallery