Habitat

Sub-tropical and temperate sandy substrates, often close to monumentation such as rocky reefs or kelp forests where food is abundant. Inshore to edge of continental shelf. From 2-200m. More commonly 3-100m.

Distribution

Eastern Pacific. From southeast Alaska to Baja California. Records from the Pacific coast of South America likely refer to the South Pacific Angel Shark (Squatina armata).

Reproduction

Like other squatinids, the Pacific angelshark is an aplacental viviparous species. 1-11 pups per litter. Gestation approximately 10 months. Pups are born between March and June.

Diet

Feeds on small fishes including queenfish, blacksmiths, gobies and juvenile sea bass. Also consumes sea cucumbers.
The Pacific angelshark is an ambush predator that lays on the substrate partially covered by sand. When a fish swims within range, the angelshark explodes upwards from its concealment, mouth agape and clamps down on its prey.

Behavior

The Pacific angelshark remains motionless (waiting for prey to swim near its mouth) for long periods each day. Returns to the same resting/hunting spot each day. Presumably relocates if prey becomes scarce.

Reaction to divers

Easy to approach. Remains motionless, relying on camouflage. Will bolt if molested.

Diving logistics

The Pacific angelshark is quite common at various sandy areas adjacent to reefs or kelp forests in Southern California. At the West end of Santa Cruz Island they are very abundant. They are fairly abundant throughout the Northern Channel Islands. The deep sand around Ship Rock at Catalina is a good spot. And in the South Bay you can find them at Malaga Cove.
North of Santa Barbara, they can be encountered on shore dives at Tajeguas Beach.

The best way to search for angel sharks is to swim along the edge of the reef, about 2m above the sand, in rocky or kelpy areas where the sharks have sand they can hide under and access to a good supply of fishes.
Although the shark will likely be buried under a fine covering of sand, their outline is often somewhat visible. Even if the outline of the angelshark is obscured, they always keep their eyes and spiracles exposed. After a few encounters, you should be able to pick out the signs of a shark’s presence more easily.
Once you have located a shark, with slow, non-aggressive movements, it is usually possible to settle down next to it and gently fan away most of the sand to get a better look. This does not distress the animal or significantly waste its energy because one or two pectoral fin flaps will completely cover it again. Be careful not to wave your hand too close to its mouth to avoid a demonstration of its incredibly fast bite reflex!