How about that?  We managed to make it all the way to the last Wild Fact of the week.  I am sure you are excited to get the weekend started so I will get right into today’s fact on the Spotted Ratfish.  To take a look at today’s animal, we are going to be doing a little diving in the Pacific Northwest.  It may be a little chilly so I suggest you bring a wet suit.  Before we dive in, let’s learn a little more about this interesting deep sea creature.

The Spotted Ratfish is actually a harmless relative to the shark family.  Obviously they get their name from the long, pointed,  rat-like tail, which is pretty unique for fish species.  In case their unusual tail isn’t enough to help you identify them during our dive, let’s go over a few more key features.  The Spotted Ratfish has a smooth and scale-less skin and will usually be a silvery colour with shades of gold, blue and green.  As well, this Ratfish has a large, emerald green eye which is capable of reflecting the light just like a cats eye.   This should definitely help spot them in the dark depths of the ocean.

Unfortunately, we may have a tough time observing these interesting fish species since the Spotted Ratfish tries to keep its distance from divers.  Although, if they do feel threatened, they are capable of inflicting a mild, toxic wound using a poisonous spine.  Don’t worry, it won’t kill you and for the most part the Spotted Ratfish is not generally an aggressive fish.  Oh and be sure to watch them as they swim away since I guarantee it will be entertaining.  I think they like to pretend they are in an air show as they will typically perform barrel rolls and corkscrew turns as they swim away.

Spotted Ratfish Fast Fact – Keep your eyes out while you are scanning the ocean floor.  The Spotted Ratfish will lay leathery egg cases that are often mistaken as inanimate objects by curious divers.  I guess it is a good thing that the Ratfish has figured out a way to make their eggs blend in and look like a non-living object.

It looks as though we have made it to the weekend.  Thanks for reading Wild Facts this week! Now let’s get outside and enjoy the beautiful weekend.  See you on Monday.