Disparate Angel Shark

This species has no thorns nor enlarged denticles on the mean dorsal line. The dermal denticles has 4 keels extending posteriorly, its widest base, approximately twice its length. Dorsal fins are very different in size, shape and area, with their base about half their height. Nasal lobes are simple and similar in length; the first and last are spatula-like in shape; the central part irregularly quadrangular. its edge with several lobes. General body color is dark brown at the dorsal surface, ocelli absent, but with 2 distinct round black spots on the upper edge of the pectoral fins and with irregular, scattered whitish spots. Each side of jaws with 8 triangular, non-serrated, and straight teeth, the upper with 2 functional series, the lower with only one (Ref. 74686).

The disparate angelshark (Squatina heteroptera) is a species of angelshark. It occurs at depths down to 164 m in the Gulf of Mexico and reaches a length of 49 cm (19 in). Heteroptera in its name refers to the difference in size, shape and area of the two dorsal fins. Disparate angelsharks have the typical angel shark body form that is broadly flattened with large pectoral/pelvic fins and eyes and spiracles on the top of their heads. Their common and species name comes from them having dorsal fins of very different sizes, shapes, and areas compared to other angel sharks.

Disparate angelsharks are usually dark brown on top (dorsal surface) without any thorns or eyespots (ocelli) though they do have two distinct round black spots on the upper edge of their pectoral fins and irregular, scattered whitish spots.