Blacktip Reef Shark

Shark

Carcharhinus melanopterus

Max Size

Total length 1.8 metres

Max Weight

15 kg

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 – Subclass: Chondrichthyes – 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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Similar Species

Whitetip Reef Shark

(Triaenodon obesus)

Kingdom Animalia

Phylum Chordata

Class – Subclass Chondrichthyes – Elasmobranchii

Order Carcharhiniformes (ground sharks)

Family Carcharhinidae (requiem sharks)

Species Triaenodon obesus

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