Whitetip Reef Shark, Triaenodon obesus

Size:
Max. 210cm.  Mature females 110-160cm, mature males 100-170cm.

Appearance:
Broad, flattened snout with short labial furrows.  Both pectoral and dorsal fins pointed.  Coloration grey to brown above, white underbelly.  Upper lobe of caudal and first dorsal fins with distinct white tips.

Distribution:
Widespread throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific Ocean.  Also found in parts of Central and Eastern Pacific.  Depth ranges from intertidal to 50m.

General:
One of the most abundant species found on the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific.  During the day often found on the shallow reef flats, resting in caves or under ledges.  Greatest activity is during the night when the animals can be seen hunting in packs.

Feeding:
Diet consists of bony fishes, crabs, lobsters and octopus.

Reproduction:
Placental viviparous with a yolk-sac placenta.  Gestation period about 13 months with 1-5 pups per litter.  Size at birth between 50-60cm.

Similar Species:
None.

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