Smooth-hound and Similar Species
Mustelus mustelus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Smooth-hound. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Starry Smooth-hound
Mustelus asterias
Key differences: The Starry Smooth-hound has numerous small, distinct white spots on its dorsal surface, which are absent in adult Common Smooth-hounds. Juveniles of M. mustelus may have faint spots, but they are not as pronounced or persistent as in M. asterias.
Blackspotted Smooth-hound
Mustelus punctulatus
Key differences: M. punctulatus typically has small, dark spots on its dorsal surface, which are generally more defined and persistent than any faint markings on juvenile M. mustelus. Geographic range also differs, with M. punctulatus being more restricted to the Mediterranean and parts of the Eastern Atlantic.
Spiny Dogfish
Squalus acanthias
Key differences: Spiny Dogfish possess a sharp spine at the anterior margin of each dorsal fin, a feature entirely absent in all Smooth-hound species (Mustelus spp.). Their body shape is also generally more robust.
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