There are numerous species of angelsharks (Squatinidae) in the world, but this particular species (Squatina squatina) that can be found in an area that that extends from south of Norway and Sweden to the Canary Islands and to the Med and the Black Sea has become so rare because of industrial fishing techniques that it's now on the IUCS red list of threatened species.

Half-ray, half-shark, the angelshark can measure up to 2.4 meters in length and weigh up to 80 kilograms. They are nocturnal predators that feed mainly on crustaceans. They hide in the sand, waiting for a prey to pass by.

ABOUT THIS DIVE
It's possible to observe angelsharks in broad daylight in the Canary Islands, but you'll have to be very lucky. Or you could try to convince small dive centres south of Tenerife (between Los Cristanos and Las Galletas) to take you to a special site that has never been publicized, for many reasons - you'll understand why. Now it's your turn to try!

© Rafa Herrero Massieu www.aquawork.com / Original music by David Gonçalves