Category: Fish
This common species is one of the most familiar species of the Squalidae family. It is found nearly worldwide and tends to inhabit shallow, temperate waters. It is a commercially valuable species and is a popular food in many parts of the world. Dogfish and their byproducts are also used for fertilizer, liver oil, dissection specimens, and pet food – unfortunately, this popularity has led to major declines in dogfish population due to unsustainable fishing practices.
Hey, Fishlips!
If you’ve ever worn lipstick (or kissed anybody wearing lipstick), you’ve probably had fish scales on your lips. Of course you won’t find “herring scales from commercial fishing hauls” on the ingredients list of your cosmetics - they list it as the regal-sounding “pearl essence” or “pearlescence.” But why? Because the scales of silvery fish that capture and reflect light so beautifully in the water function the same way on your lips. So maybe next time somebody calls you “fish lips,” don’t jump to conclusions too quickly, maybe they mean it as a compliment!
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
