Overview
Whitetip reef sharks are characterized by their distinctive white tips on their dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins. They have a slender, streamlined body with a pointed snout and large, rounded pectoral fins. They are distinguished from other reef sharks by their white fin tips, which are more prominent than those of other species.
Commonly found in:
- Australia
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- South Africa
- Egypt
- Bahamas
- Fiji
- Maldives
- Seychelles
- Thailand
- United States
- Mexico
- Brazil
- Japan
Over the past 74 years, there have been 8 recorded attacks by whitetip reef sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:
Size and Weight
- Size: Males average 4.9-5.2 feet when mature; females average 5.2-5.5 feet
- Weight: Males typically weigh 84-94 pounds; females typically weigh 94-121 pounds
- Swimming speed: Both sexes swim at an average speed of 1-2 mph
Interaction with Humans
- Interaction with Humans: Generally non-aggressive, but may become curious
- Avoidance: Stay out of shallow reef areas at night
- Activity: Nocturnal, most active at night
Lifespan and Diet
- Lifespan: Both males and females live approximately 25 years
- Diet: Small reef fish, octopuses, crustaceans; hunts by wriggling into reef crevices
Migratory Patterns
Whitetip Reef Shark is generally non-migratory. It tends to stay within a limited home range, often associated with specific coral reef habitats. These sharks typically remain in the same area year-round, showing high site fidelity to particular reefs or reef systems.
