Overview

Carpet sharks are characterized by their flattened, broad bodies, resembling a carpet. Their bodies are covered in small, dense dermal denticles, giving them a rough texture. Unlike other sharks, they have a distinctive mouth located on the underside of their head, and their eyes are positioned on top. They also have a unique feature of having two dorsal fins positioned far back on their body, close to the tail.

Commonly found in:

1. Australia
2. South Africa
3. New Zealand
4. Japan
5. United States
6. Brazil
7. India
8. Indonesia
9. Philippines
10. Malaysia
11. Thailand
12. Vietnam
13. China
14. South Korea
15. Taiwan

Over the past 74 years, there have been 9 recorded attacks by carpet sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:

• Port Macdonnell
• Anglesea Beach
• Woodman Point Groyne
• Cottesloe Beach
• Coney Island Creek Park

Size and Weight

• Size: Males average between 2.5-3 feet when mature; females average between 3-3.5 feet when mature
• Weight: Males typically weigh 30-40 pounds; females typically weigh 40-50 pounds
• Swimming speed: Both sexes swim at speeds of 1-2 mph

Interaction with Humans

• Interaction with Humans: Generally harmless, may bite if stepped on
• Avoidance: Stay out of shallow coastal waters at night
• Activity: Nocturnal, most active at night

Lifespan and Diet

• Lifespan: Males live approximately 20-25 years; females live approximately 25-30 years
• Diet: Small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks; ambush predator that lies motionless on the seafloor

Migratory Patterns

Carpet sharks generally do not have significant migratory patterns. They are mostly sedentary, bottom-dwelling species that tend to remain in the same local areas throughout the year.