Black Tip Reef Shark
Common Names: Black Tip Reef Shark, Blackfin
Scientific Name: Carcharhinus melanopterus
Size: Up to 1.8m
Found in: Indo-Australian Pacific to Central Pacific waters
Population Status: Lower Risk of becoming vulnerable (IUCN 2007)
Tooth Shape:
Black Tip Reef Sharks feed on reef fish,
crustaceans, stingrays, cephalopods and
sea snakes.
Their teeth are narrow with broad serrated cusps.
Reproduction:
Viviparous - Give birth to live young.
Gestation is around 10-12 months. Females give birth
in late spring and early summer to 1-10 pups. Birthing
occurs in inshore estuarine nursery grounds where the
young remain for the first few years of their lives.
Interesting Facts:
The Black Tip Reef Shark is a targeted species in a number of commercial fisheries, including the longline fishery off the south-east coast of the U.S. This species comprises around 7% of the catch.
Black Tip Reef Sharks feed on reef fish,
crustaceans, stingrays, cephalopods and
sea snakes.
Their teeth are narrow with broad serrated cusps.
Reproduction:
Viviparous - Give birth to live young.
Gestation is around 10-12 months. Females give birth
in late spring and early summer to 1-10 pups. Birthing
occurs in inshore estuarine nursery grounds where the
young remain for the first few years of their lives.
Interesting Facts:
The Black Tip Reef Shark is a targeted species in a number of commercial fisheries, including the longline fishery off the south-east coast of the U.S. This species comprises around 7% of the catch.
