Chain Cat Shark

Chain Cat Shark (Scyliorhinus retifer)

The Chain Catshark, also known as the Chain Dogfish, is a small, reticulated catshark distinguished by its biofluorescent properties. Commonly found in the Northwest Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean, it is a harmless species rarely encountered by humans. Its reproductive traits closely resemble those of the Small-Spotted Catshark. The Chain Catshark inhabits the Northwest Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean, ranging from George’s Bank in Massachusetts to Nicaragua and Barbados. In the Mid-Atlantic Bight, it is found along the outer continental shelf and upper slope. The shark typically resides at depths of 36 to 750 meters (118–2,461 feet); in northern regions, it is generally found between 36 and 230 meters (118–755 feet), while in southern areas, it is usually deeper than 460 meters (1,510 feet). Given its depth range, the Chain Catshark is believed to not undertake large-scale migrations. Temperature appears to be a limiting factor in northern regions, especially during winter. Seasonal variations in water temperature at the shelf edge influence its distribution, with the shark generally inhabiting waters between 8.5°C (47°F) and 14°C (57°F).