Blacktip Reef Shark
SharkCarcharhinus melanopterus
Total length 1.8 metres
Detail Information
Agile predator of tropical coral reefs. Small and fast.
Black tips on each fin
Blacktip reef sharks are among the smaller species of requiem sharks. They have a sandy-colored dorsal surface and a white ventral surface. Their most distinctive feature is the black tip on each of their fin.
Life around the reef
Blacktip reef sharks can be found in tropical waters, primarily around coastal coral reefs and atolls. They generally prefer shallow coral reefs and are rarely found far offshore or in deep waters.
Blacktip reef sharks are important predators in coral reef ecosystems. Using their speed, agility, and occasional in-group hunting behavior, they prey on small fishes, molluscs, and crustaceans.
The gentle sharks
Although they are skilled predators, blacktip reef sharks are not typically regarded as a danger to humans. They are notoriously shy around humans and are often a popular attraction for divers and snorkelers. However, their swift swimming ability can make them quite difficult to photograph.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Chondrichthyes
- Subclass
- Elasmobranchii
- Order
- Carcharhiniformes (ground sharks)
- Family
- Carcharhinidae (requiem sharks)
- Species
- Carcharhinus melanopterus
Take part as a citizen scientist
Every encounter with elasmobranchs will be valuable data to support elasmobranch conservation. By supporting sharks and rays, you are also contributing to maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
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