Any of 10–12 species (genus Squatina , family Squatinidae) of shark s having a flattened head and body, with winglike pectoral and pelvic fins that make them resemble ray s.
The tail bears two dorsal fins, and behind each eye is a prominent spiracle. Monkfish grow up to 6.25 ft (2.5 m) long. They inhabit tropical and warm temperate waters of continental shelves worldwide. The angelfish, or angel shark ( S. squatina ), is often caught for food in European waters. The term monkfish is also used for the unrelated food species of the genus Lophius , bottom-dwelling goosefish with enormous mouths and "fishing rod" lures extending from their heads.