Introduction
The Dusky Smooth-Hound (Mustelus canis) is a marine species belonging to the family Triakidae. This fascinating creature is often identified by its long slender body and its striking gray-brown color that can sometimes appear almost black.
Conservation Status
The Dusky Smooth-Hound is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This is primarily due to the wide distribution of the specie and its relatively robust population levels. However, efforts are still made to manage and monitor fishing activities to prevent significant population decline, especially in areas where the species is heavily fished.
Statistics
| Aspect | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 100 cm | 60 – 150 cm |
| Weight | 4.5 kg | 1.5 – 9.1 kg |
| Lifespan | 16 years | N/A |
Distribution
The Dusky Smooth-Hound has a wide distribution. It can be found in the Atlantic Ocean, along the shores of the United States, from Massachusetts to Florida, as well as in parts of the Gulf of Mexico. Migration patterns of this species often align with changing water temperatures, often migrating to cooler or warmer waters depending on the season.
Habitats
Favoring bays and coastal waters, the Dusky Smooth-Hound resides primarily in saltwater or brackish environments. Their typical depth range is between 1 to 20 meters, often preferring warmer water temperatures between 16 and 24 degrees Celsius.
When and Where to See
The Dusky Smooth-Hound can typically be seen between spring to early fall, often most active during night time. Their migration pattern often has them present in colder waters during the warmer months and warmer waters during colder months.
Best Fishing Locations
- Chesapeake Bay, Virginia, United States
- Outer Banks, North Carolina, United States
- Long Island, New York, United States
- Delaware Bay, Delaware, United States
- Gulf of Mexico, United States
- Florida Keys, Florida, United States
General Tips:
If specific locations are not known, the best way to find the Dusky Smooth-Hound is by focusing on warmer coastal areas with sandy or muddy bottoms especially during cooler months.
How to Catch
Typically, live or cut bait such as squid or shrimp are the preferred bait for this species. Fishing techniques include bottom fishing. The best time to fish for the Dusky Smooth-Hound are during periods of high tide, with night time proved to be the most successful time.
Identification Guide
The Dusky Smooth-Hound is often identified by its elongated and slender body, its dorsal fins and a uniformly grey-brown color that sometimes can appear black. It differs from other species by having a second dorsal fin about half the size of the first.
Culinary
The Dusky Smooth-Hound is often enjoyed blackened or grilled. It has a delicate, flaky texture with a slightly sweet flavor. Nutritional information specifies it as a good source of protein with low fat.
Additional Information
The Dusky Smooth-Hound feeds primarily on crustaceans, small fish and invertebrates. The main threats to this species come from overfishing and habitat degradation. They do not carry any particular cultural or historical significance.
References and Further Reading
To learn more about the Dusky Smooth-Hound, check resources like the IUCN Red List or fishbase.org. Field guides specific to fishing or marine life of the regions in which they inhabit such as ‘Field Guide to Sea Fish of Britain and North Europe’ can also provide useful information.