Why do fishermen want dogfish sharks?

Dogfish sharks are not typically sought after by fishermen. In fact, they are often considered a nuisance species and discarded as bycatch. However, some fishermen do target them for a few reasons:

Food: Dogfish sharks are edible and can be used in various dishes, including fish and chips, shark steaks, and smoked fish. Their meat is white, firm, and has a mild flavor, making it a versatile cooking ingredient.

Oil: Dogfish sharks are rich in squalene, a natural oil that has been used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. Squalene is a valuable commodity and can be extracted from the liver of the shark.

Leather: The skin of dogfish sharks can be used to make leather. Shark leather is known for its durability, water resistance, and unique texture, making it a desirable material for fashion accessories, handbags, shoes, and other leather goods.

Aquariums: Some aquariums and public aquariums keep dogfish sharks as exhibit animals due to their interesting appearance and behavior. They can be found in both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.

It's important to note that while some fishermen may target dogfish sharks for these reasons, they are more commonly caught as bycatch in commercial fishing operations. Bycatch is a significant issue in fisheries and can have negative consequences for marine ecosystems.