First Live Footage of Roughskin Dogfish Shark at 1,054 Meters

Govind Tekale

Scientists have recorded the first-ever live footage of the roughskin dogfish shark (Centroscymnus owstonii) at depths of 1,054 meters in the Caribbean Sea near Little Cayman.

Photo Source:- Doecayman (Instagram)

The elusive shark, previously known only through bycatch specimens, made 54 passes in front of the camera over 11 minutes, marking its first confirmed sighting in the central Caribbean.

Photo Source:- Andy Murch (Sharks and Rays)

Researchers used a baited remote underwater video system (BRUVS) with sardine bait, a non-invasive method for studying deep-sea marine life.

Photo Source: AIMS (CC BY 3.0 AU)

This discovery stems from the first systematic investigation of deep-sea biodiversity in the Cayman Islands.

Photo Source:- Erik (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The footage provided unprecedented insights into the natural behavior of the roughskin dogfish, including feeding habits.

Photo Source:- Animalia (CC BY 4.0)

Video-based systems like dBRUV, emphasized by marine biologist Dr. Johanna Kohler, are vital for studying deep-sea creatures with minimal ecological disturbance.

Photo Source:- Doekayman (X formarly twitter)

Published in the Journal of Fish Biology, these findings contribute to understanding biodiversity and protecting deep-sea ecosystems in the Caribbean region.

Photo Source:- Colombia One (CC BY 4.0)

The research team's collaborative effort provides crucial data for habitat protection and marine conservation policies, reinforcing the need for marine-protected areas.

Photo Source:- The fishing website (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

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