Caribbean Reef Shark

ChondrichthyesCarcharhinidae
ClassChondrichthyes
FamilyCarcharhinidae
Size2-2.5 m
HabitatCaribbean reefs
DietVarious fish, cephalopods

About the Caribbean Reef Shark

The most commonly encountered shark on Caribbean reefs. They are curious and may approach divers closely. They can enter a tonic immobility state when turned upside down. They are often the top predator on degraded reefs. Overfishing has reduced their numbers significantly. They give birth to 3-6 live pups. They live 14+ years. They are sometimes seen riding currents near reef drop-offs. Their populations have declined in areas with heavy shark fishing.

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