Gray Reef Shark-Aquarium of The Pacific
Gray Reef Shark-Aquarium of The Pacific
| Attributes | Information |
|---|---|
| Habitat | The Gray Reef Shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos) is a species commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in coral reef habitats. These sharks prefer shallow coastal waters with strong currents, often inhabiting areas around reef drop-offs, channels, and outer reef slopes. They are frequently encountered near coral atolls, seamounts, and along the continental shelf. Gray Reef Sharks are known to roam across a wide range, from as far north as Japan to as far south as Australia. |
| Physical Appearance | Gray Reef Sharks exhibit a streamlined body with a slender, elongated snout. Their body coloration varies from grayish-brown to bronze, with a white underside. These sharks typically have a darker patch on the tips of their dorsal fins, resembling the white-tipped appearance of some other species. They possess large, circular eyes and multiple rows of serrated teeth. Their gill slits are large, aiding in respiration while stationary. |
| Size | Adult Gray Reef Sharks usually measure between 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) in length, with females typically larger than males. Enormous individuals can reach lengths up to 9 feet (2.7 meters). Despite their relatively modest size compared to other shark species, Gray Reef Sharks are known for their agility and swift movements, making them efficient predators in their habitat. |
| Diet | Gray Reef Sharks are opportunistic predators with a varied diet that includes a range of marine species. Their primary prey is reef fish, such as groupers, snappers, and parrotfish. They also feed on cephalopods, crustaceans, and occasionally small sharks and rays. These sharks hunt both day and night, relying on their keen senses and stealthy approach to ambush prey. |
| Reproduction | Like many shark species, Gray Reef Sharks are viviparous, giving birth to live young. Mating typically occurs during the summer when individuals congregate in specific areas for breeding. Female Gray Reef Sharks have a biennial reproductive cycle, giving birth to litters of 4 to 6 pups after a gestation period of approximately 12 months. Newborn pups are about 16 to 20 inches (40 to 50 centimeters) long and are immediately independent, having to fend for themselves from birth. The reproductive strategy of Gray Reef Sharks contributes to their resilience and ability to maintain stable populations in their marine ecosystems. |