CarcharhiniformesAttack Relevant

Sand Tiger Shark

Carcharias taurus

Max Length

3.2m

Overview

Known as grey nurse shark in Australia. Despite its fearsome appearance — it constantly displays its teeth — it is one of the least aggressive large sharks. The only shark known to gulp air at the surface to achieve neutral buoyancy.

Habitat

Inshore from surf zone, shallow bays, rock and coral reefs, to at least 630 ft [190 m].

Distribution

Worldwide

Warm and temperate waters throughout the world.

Behavior

The shark often swims with its mouth ajar and its teeth visible. Divers usually see the shark close to the bottom, cruising 4 to 6 ft [1.2 to 1.8 m] above the sea floor, or hovering almost motionless in cuts in the reef or out on the sand where the current is strongest. Sexual segregation occurs with this species. The shark comes into the shallows at night to feed. This species is migratory, moving to deeper water in winter.

Human Safety

The shark is generally placid, despite its ferocious appearance. If approached too closely by a diver the shark will thump its tail with force, creating a loud booming sound that will make the diver’s ears ring.

Biology

Diet: Primarily a fish eater, but it also feeds on crustaceans and squid.
Reproduction: Ovoviviparous
Birth Size: 105cm

Appearance

Dorsal: Bronze to gray above, white below. May have brown blotches on its body.

Dentition

Upper jaw: Large slender awl-shaped smooth-edged teeth with lateral cusplets.

Sources:sharksorg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the sand tiger shark dangerous to humans?

The sand tiger shark is considered relevant to human-shark incidents and has been recorded in the Global Shark Attack File. As with any large shark, encounters in the wild should be avoided.

Where does this species data come from?

Species profiles are compiled from peer-reviewed taxonomy and published references. Incident data is sourced from the Global Shark Attack File and joined to species records by name match.

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