Blacktip Reef Shark

The Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) is a small coastal shark found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. While it can weigh up to 20 kg, most individuals average around 5-10 kg. These sharks prefer shallow waters, often venturing into lagoons and over sandy shallows. Adults are commonly seen near coral reef slopes and platforms, while juveniles stick to sheltered areas. They rarely go deeper than 10 m but have been recorded as deep as 75 m. Blacktip Reef Sharks are fast and active predators, often forming small groups or larger schools. Their diet mainly consists of reef fish, along with squid, octopuses, shrimp, and crabs. Occasionally, they may feed on smaller sharks, rays, or even sea snakes.