Squalus suckleyi is a species of shark found in the North Pacific Ocean. Its name, pronounced /ˈskwɑːləs ˈsʌkliːaɪ/, is derived from the Latin squalus, meaning shark, and the last name of naval officer and naturalist George Suckley. The spelling of the word follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription system, which allows for accurate pronunciation across languages. Squalus suckleyi is a fascinating species known for its distinct physical characteristics and behavior, making it a favorite among marine biologists and shark enthusiasts.
Squalus suckleyi, commonly known as the North Pacific spiny dogfish, is a species of small shark belonging to the family Squalidae. This cartilaginous fish can be found in the cool temperate waters of the North Pacific Ocean, specifically in the northeastern part, from the Bering Sea down to northern Mexico.
The North Pacific spiny dogfish has a slender, elongated body with a pointed snout and two dorsal fins that possess spines. It usually grows to a length of about 3 to 4 feet and can weigh up to 10-15 pounds. The coloration of the shark varies, ranging from brownish-gray to bluish-gray on the upper side, while the ventral side is lighter. The species gets its name from the sharp, venomous spines present in front of each dorsal fin, a characteristic common to dogfish species.
These sharks are opportunistic predators, feeding on a wide range of prey including small fish, invertebrates, and occasionally squid. They are a slow-growing and long-lived species, with a lifespan of up to 70 years. North Pacific spiny dogfish are notable for their high reproductive potential and the ability to produce large litters of live young, typically numbering around 6-14 pups.
Due to their abundance and commercial value, Squalus suckleyi are heavily fished for their meat, fins, and liver oil. They are also commonly used in the production of fishmeal and fish oil. The species is carefully managed, with fishing regulations in place to sustain their population and ensure their long-term survival.
The word "Squalus suckleyi" is a scientific name given to a species of dogfish shark. Breaking down the etymology:
1. "Squalus": This refers to the genus name of the dogfish shark. It derives from the Latin word "squalus", which means "shark" or "sea fish".
2. "Suckleyi": This is the specific epithet of the shark species, named after George Suckley. George Suckley was an American physician and naturalist who worked with the Pacific Railroad Surveys during the mid-19th century. He contributed significantly to the field of natural history and the study of fishes in North America.
Therefore, "Squalus suckleyi" is the scientific name given to honor George Suckley for his contributions to the study of fishes, particularly the dogfish shark species.