Scymnodon obscurus

Scymnodon obscurus (Vaillant, 1888) is a species of chondrichthyes belonging to the family Somniosidae (order Squaliformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the smallmouth velvet dogfish.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Scymnodon obscurus (Vaillant, 1888) places this species within the chondrichthyes lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Squaliformes, Scymnodon obscurus exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: a chondrichthyes fish Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Somniosidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Somniosidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.