Overview

Reef sharks are members of the Carcharhinidae family. They have a slender, streamlined body with a pointed snout and large, widely spaced eyes. Their coloration is typically gray or brown on the dorsal side and white on the ventral side. They are distinguished from other similar species by their distinctive, black-tipped fins, particularly the first dorsal fin.

Commonly found in:

1. Australia
2. Indonesia
3. Philippines
4. South Africa
5. New Zealand
6. Fiji
7. Hawaii
8. Bahamas
9. Maldives
10. Seychelles
11. Mexico
12. Brazil
13. Japan

Over the past 42 years, there have been 21 recorded attacks by reef 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 4-5 feet when mature; females average between 5-6 feet when mature
• Weight: Males typically weigh 100-150 pounds; females typically weigh 150-200 pounds
• Swimming speed: Both sexes can reach speeds of 25-30 mph

Interaction with Humans

• Interaction with Humans: Generally non-aggressive, but may become curious
• Avoidance: Stay out of shallow reef areas during low light conditions
• Activity: Most active during dawn and dusk

Lifespan and Diet

• Lifespan: Males generally live 15-20 years; females generally live 20-25 years
• Diet: Fish, squid, and crustaceans; hunts by patrolling reefs and using short bursts of speed

Migratory Patterns

Reef sharks generally do not have significant migratory patterns. They tend to stay within their home ranges near coral reefs and coastal areas throughout the year. Some species may make short-distance movements between reefs or along coastlines, but they do not undertake long-distance migrations across oceans or between countries.