Smooth dogfish

This species occurs within the western Atlantic Ocean in separate populations which can be found as far north as eastern Canada and as far south as Argentina. They inhabit continental shelf waters, from the surf zone to a depth of about 700 feet. They migrate inshore and north during the summer, south and offshore during the winter.

Smooth dogfish will eat crustaceans, squid, and bony fish. They are also opportunistic scavengers. They are generally harmless to humans. Their flat, blunt teeth are used for crushing and grinding food, rather than tearing it.

Smooth dogfish mate between May and June. They are viviparous and bear 4-20 pups after a ten month gestation. The young are approximately one foot in length when born. Females reach sexual maturity in 4-5 years, while males reach sexual maturity in 2-3 years. It is an active nocturnal species which may hunt in schools. Females may live to an age of 16 years while males may live to 10.

The smooth dogfish currently has no federal or New Jersey state conservation status. They are abundant and are often caught by fishermen both from shore and offshore. Because of the frequency with which they are caught, many are often intentionally killed as “junk fish” or for consuming bait intended for other fish.

Although this species appears to be stable and abundant in many portions of its range, some populations have shown a decline. Reasons for the decline include both commercial and recreational fisheries and as by-catch. Marine pollution, especially from plastics, also threatens this and many other marine species. Fortunately, its fast growth, early maturity, and relatively high rate of reproduction should enable populations to recover if allowed.

Smooth dogfish are hardy in captivity and are kept in many aquariums.