blacktip reef shark
| Scientific name | Carcharhinus melanopterus |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Quoy & Gaimard |
| Year of description | 1824 |
| IUCN category (World) | VU |
| Family | Carcharhinidae |
| Genus | Carcharhinus |
Introduction
The Carcharhinus melanopterus, more commonly known as the blacktip reef shark, is a tropical predator native to the Gulf of Bengal, Gulf of Persia, Great Barrier Reef, Oman Sea, Red Sea, Southeast Asian Seas, Indonesian Seas, Eastern Indian Ocean, Western Indian Ocean and Western Tropical Pacific Ocean.
Living in lagoons and often near beaches, it is frequently observed by divers and swimmers. Generally shy, it avoids the presence of humans in the water. Although never deadly, bites can occur, especially on spear fishermen returning with freshly caught fish. Sometimes persistent swimmers may be attacked, especially in countries where shark feeding is practiced.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Type
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Average size100 cm
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Maximum size180 cm
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Longevity15 year
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ShapeOval
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Type
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Average size100 cm
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Maximum size180 cm
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Longevity15 year
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ShapeOval
How to recognize the blacktip reef shark ?
The blacktip reef shark is uniform in color with a gray/brown back and white belly. It is easily recognizable by the black tips on its fins.
On the dorsal fin, the black tip is preceded by a lighter band. The caudal fin is heterocercal with the upper part larger and split at the tip. A black margin runs along the edge of the caudal fin.
Sexual dimorphism
The sexual dimorphism of this species is very pronounced. The male has a pair of claspers, reproductive organs derived from the modification of the pelvic fins, allowing to fertilize the female.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietcarnivorous
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Sociabilityliving in small groups
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territorialNo
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Way of livingdiurnal
The blacktip reef shark is a fast-tempered carnivore, living alone or in small groups, in shallow waters of the lagoons. It is sometimes seen on the outer slopes of coral reefs, in mangroves, and more rarely in estuaries.
This predator is part of the top predators of its habitat. It mainly feeds on small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and cephalopods.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare
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Migratory speciesYes
The blacktip reef shark is a viviparous species giving birth to 2 to 4 pups, each measuring between 46 to 52 cm. Gestation can last up to 16 months.
Sexual maturity is reached at a size of around 1m.
Risks for humans
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VenomousNo
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BiteYes
This species can attack if it feels threatened. It is important to be particularly vigilant especially during dives or fishing sessions.
Where to find it?
Conservation status of populations (IUCN)
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature24 - 28 °C
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Depth10 - 75 m
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EnvironmentActive pelagic
Biotope presentation
This species commonly frequents shallow waters near coasts. It is observed near coral reefs, reef flats, and rocky areas. Less frequently, it is found in mangroves, following the tides, and can even venture up rivers for a short distance but far from the sea.
To go further
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Adrien Falzon
Benoit Chartrer
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Bibliographic references
Population structure, spatial distribution and life-history traits of blacktip reef sharks Carcharhinus melanopterus - J. Mourier - S. C. Mills - S. Planes - WILEY - 2013.
Validated age, growth and reproductive biology of Carcharhinus melanopterus, a widely distributed and exploited reef shark - Andrew Chin - Colin Simpfendorfer - Andrew Tobin - Michelle Heupel - CSIRO - 2013.
Where to see this species?
Scientific partners
Tags
Species of the same family
Same genus
