Small-Spotted Catshark w/DATA ex Dr. Gordon Hubbell

NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

The Small-Spotted Catshark is one of the most recognizable catsharks of the northeast Atlantic, yet jaws from this species are far less commonly seen in collections than those of larger, more familiar sharks. That alone makes one appealing, but a documented specimen from the Dr. Gordon Hubbell collection carries even greater collector significance. Dr. Hubbell is widely respected in the shark collecting world, and provenance tied to his collection adds an extra layer of authenticity, history, and desirability to an already uncommon jaw. For collectors looking to add variety and solid provenance to their shark jaw collection, this is a standout piece.

Species & Classification

Scientific Name: Scyliorhinus canicula (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common Names: Small-Spotted Catshark, Lesser-Spotted Dogfish, Sandy Dogfish

Family: Scyliorhinidae

Order: Carcharhiniformes

Biology & Physical Characteristics

The Small-Spotted Catshark is a slender, small-bodied shark known for its gray-brown coloration and scattered dark spots. Adults are relatively small compared to many sharks represented in collections, which gives the jaw a more delicate and intricate appearance. The teeth are numerous and fine, creating a very different look from the broad crushing jaws of houndsharks or the larger cutting teeth of more aggressive predatory species. That contrast makes this jaw especially interesting in a display focused on diversity of shark dentition.

Habitat & Distribution

This species is found in the northeast Atlantic, ranging from northern Europe down to West Africa, and throughout the Mediterranean Sea. It is a bottom-dwelling shark that prefers sandy, muddy, and gravelly seafloors along continental shelves and upper slopes. Because it is such a classic European catshark, it holds strong educational value as well as collector appeal.

Diet & Behavior

The Small-Spotted Catshark feeds on a variety of bottom-dwelling prey, including crustaceans, mollusks, worms, small cephalopods, and small fishes. It is mostly active at night, when it leaves the seafloor to forage. Its modest size and feeding habits make it very different from the large open-water sharks many collectors are more familiar with.

Reproduction

This species is egg-laying rather than live-bearing. Females produce the familiar rectangular egg cases often called “mermaid’s purses,” which are attached to seaweed or other structures on the seafloor. That reproductive style is one of the many reasons catsharks are especially interesting to collectors and educators alike.

Collector Notes

• Authentic jaw from the Dr. Gordon Hubbell collection

• Includes added provenance and collector value

• A less common species in the jaw trade

• Fine, closely set teeth give it a detailed and distinctive look

• Excellent for shark jaw collectors, natural history displays, and educational collections