Observations of neonate spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias, in Southern New England: A first account of a potential pupping ground in the Northwestern Atlantic

The spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias, is a commercially important, circumboreal species of shark. However, very little information concerning the early life history of this species exists, especially along the US east coast. Elucidating the habitats that are critical for survival at this stage is essential for the effective management of this species. During a routine research cruise on February 5, 2012, three out of five short duration bottom otter trawls conducted within a 4.2 km2 sampling area centered around 71.487°W and 41.226°N east of Block Island, Rhode Island (USA), yielded estimated neonate dogfish catches ranging from 181 to 2046 kg per trawl. Information herein provides the first account of a potential pupping area for this species within its US geographical range.

► First direct account of the timing and location of a Squalus acanthias pupping ground in the Northwest Atlantic.
► Data suggest neonate S. acanthias prefer fine clay and silt substrate to coarse sandy substrate.
► Neonate S. acanthias were captured in shallower, cooler waters than those previously described to be preferred by adult S. acanthias.
► Potential habitat preferences may aid in predator avoidance among neonate S. acanthias.