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Carcharhinus brachyurus
Max Length
3.3m
Overview
Also called the copper shark. The only predominantly temperate-water Carcharhinus. Forms large seasonal aggregations during sardine and yellowtail migrations off South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
Habitat
Often seen close inshore feeding on schooling fish, frequently within the surf zone. It is also found around offshore islands over deep water and to depths of 100 m.
Distribution
Warm temperate to subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Indo Pacific. It is seasonally migratory in at least part of its range. Along the coast of southern Africa it follows the giant shoals of migrating sardines.
Behavior
This is an active fast-moving shark, and it can leap out of the water.
Human Safety
This species has been implicated in bites to humans, particularly spearfishermen.
Biology
Appearance

Dentition