Ratfish
(Hydrolagus colliei)

image of a Ratfish

Image ID: 264-01

Other shots:  image of a Ratfish  image of a Ratfish  image of a Ratfish
Comments : Ratfish accompany us on most dives in Puget Sound - and are always welcome companions. However, despite their great abundance in this area, I have never seen them mate. In this shot, you can see the male using a special "clasper" on its head to hold the pectoral fin of the female as they mate. No matter how close I got to this couple, the male would not let go of the female.
Common name : Ratfish
Scientific Name : Hydrolagus colliei
Location Found : Sunrise Beach
Actual Size : 24 inches
Camera Used : Sea & Sea MMII EX 35mm ISO100
Natural History :