Fin's Fish Guide
The Ogilby's ghostshark (Hydrolagus ogilbyi) is a fish of the family Chimaeridae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
Ogilby's ghostshark is a chimaera (Chimaeridae), related to sharks and rays, from coastal and slope waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 90 cm and has a soft, cartilaginous, bronzy body with large eyes, smooth skin and a long, thread-like tail tip. Before the first dorsal fin stands a stout spine linked to a weak venom. As a bottom-dweller it crushes molluscs and crustaceans with flat tooth plates. The dorsal spine can cause a painful wound; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ogilby's ghostshark?
The Ogilby's ghostshark is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dorsal spine with weak venom and flat tooth plates; cartilaginous chimaera
Where does the Ogilby's ghostshark live?
The Ogilby's ghostshark is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Ogilby's ghostshark get?
The Ogilby's ghostshark grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 54 cm.
Is the Ogilby's ghostshark dangerous to humans?
The Ogilby's ghostshark can cause injury; handle it with care. The stout spine before the first dorsal fin carries weak venom. Do not grip the fish by the back. For a prick: immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes, clean thoroughly and check for spine fragments. For severe pain or infection seek medical help and check tetanus status.
Is the Ogilby's ghostshark edible?
The Ogilby's ghostshark is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hydrolagus
More from the family Chimaeridae
Want the complete picture on the Ogilby's ghostshark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ogilby's ghostshark is one of 12,519 species in the app.