The Atlantic Spiny Dogfish is a species of shark found in the Atlantic Ocean. Its name can be spelled phonetically as [ətˈlæntɪk ˈspaɪni ˈdɔɡfɪʃ], reflecting the standard American English pronunciation. The IPA transcription breaks the word down into individual sounds, with stress on the first syllable of Atlantic and the second syllable of Spiny. The combination of consonants and vowels creates a distinct sound for each syllable, resulting in the correct pronunciation of the name of this unique and fascinating shark.
The Atlantic Spiny Dogfish (Squalus acanthias) is a species of small shark belonging to the Squalidae family. Also known as the Common Spiny Dogfish, the Atlantic Spiny Dogfish is widely distributed in the waters of the northern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Greenland and Iceland to the coasts of North America and Europe.
These sharks are characterized by their slender bodies, dark gray or brownish coloration, and a series of sharp spines located on the leading edge of each dorsal fin. They typically measure around 3 to 4 feet in length and weigh up to 20 pounds, with females generally being larger than males.
Atlantic Spiny Dogfish are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey such as small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They have a slow growth rate and a long lifespan, with individuals reaching maturity at around 11 to 15 years of age. These sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning that embryos develop inside eggs within the female's body before being born live.
While not considered as a direct threat to humans due to their small size, Atlantic Spiny Dogfish are commercially important for their meat as well as their liver, which is rich in oil used in the production of vitamin A. They serve as an essential component in fisheries, where they are harvested sustainably to ensure the conservation of this species in their habitats.