Species Type:
Sharks & Rays, Fishes
Common Name(s):
White tip reef shark
Size:
Whitetip reef sharks are a smaller shark species, usually growing no more than 6 feet long. Males are slightly larger than females.
Diet:
At night, whitetip reef sharks feed on bottom and cave dwelling reef creatures, including mollusks, crustaceans, and a variety of bony fish. Their slender bodies allow the to reach prey in crevices of the reefs that other sharks are not able to access.
Range & Habitat:
Whitetip reef sharks are an IndoPacific species, and are also found in the Indian Ocean and Red Sea. They live in clear, shallow waters surrounding coral reefs, and often spend their time in caves during the day.
Details:
Whitetip reef sharks are a smaller species of shark, with grayish brown coloration and a distinctive white tip on their dorsal and caudal (tail) fins. They are a mostly nocturnal species, and are often found resting on the seafloor during the day. They have the ability to pump water over its gills, meaning they do not have to be constantly swimming in order to breathe.