?Records of the critically endangered Squatina aculeata and Squatina oculata (Elasmobranchii: Squatiniformes: Squatinidae) from the Mediterranean Sea

All three species of angelsharks that inhabit the Mediterranean Sea, Squatina aculeata Cuvier, 1829; oculata Bonaparte, 1840; and squatina (Linnaeus, 1758), are classified as Critically Endangered on IUCN Red List Threatened Species, since their populations have suffered severe decline range reduction, mainly due to fishing pressure. The presently reported study aims further update records S. in basin order achieve a clearer picture current status geographical distribution. In this way, we were able add contribution our knowledge about biological characteristics. Records incidental capture observation specimens between 2005 2022 collected through input alerted professional fishermen, fisher amateurs, specialist observers fishery landings or board context specific surveying programs well citizens’ science initiatives. Biological characters such total length, weight, sex, maturity determined whenever possible. A 18 34 recorded. Data corroborate occurrence, which is almost rare, these two elasmobranchs from central east part basin, revealing furthermore presence Sardinian waters, western basin. document important habitats for both existing Strait Sicily, especially area around Malta, confirm occurrence southern Aegean Sea. also established Egyptian waters. Our suggests urgent need wider application and/or reinforcement protection measures angelshark habitat, including