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:
- Australia
- South Africa
- New Zealand
- Japan
- United States
- Brazil
- India
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- China
- South Korea
- 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:
- LIST OF BEACHES HERE
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.
