Bull Huss

Scyliorhinus stellaris

The bull huss (Scyliorhinus stellaris), also known as the nursehound or greater spotted catshark, is a large catshark reaching up to 170 cm found in the northeastern Atlantic and Mediterranean. It has a stocky body covered in large dark spots and blotches on a sandy-brown background. Found on rocky reefs, kelp forests, and boulder fields from 1-125 m depth, it is nocturnal, hiding in crevices and caves during the day. It feeds on crabs, mollusks, and smaller fish. Females lay distinctive mermaid's purse egg cases attached to seaweed and gorgonians. A highlight for divers in British and European temperate waters, it is generally docile and approachable.