ZEBRA SHARK
Stegostoma fasciatum
DESCRIPTION
The Zebra Shark, also known as the leopard shark, is a species of carpet shark found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is recognized for its distinctive pattern of stripes and spots, which change as it matures.
FUN FACTS
- Zebra Sharks can change their color and pattern as they grow | They are often seen resting on the ocean floor | They have a unique ability to swim using their pectoral fins
QUICK INFO
Lifespan25-30 years in captivity, shorter in the wild
Average Weight30-70 kg
Average Length2.5-3.5 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally found in pairs during mating
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks in warmer months
- Habitat
- Zebra Sharks inhabit coral reefs, sandy bottoms, and lagoons. They are often found in shallow waters where they can easily hunt for food.
- Biomes
- Coral Reef, Coastal
- Native Range
- They are native to the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, including areas around the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean.
- Continent
- Asia, Australia, Africa
- Countries
- Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Madagascar
- Diet
- Zebra Sharks primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They use their keen sense of smell to locate prey on the ocean floor.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- small fish, crustaceans, mollusks
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally found in pairs during mating
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
30-70 kg
Weight
2.5-3.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- The coloration features a pattern of dark stripes and spots on a lighter background, which helps with camouflage.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally smaller than females.
- Lifespan
- 25-30 years in captivity, shorter in the wild
- Gestation Period
- 6-12 months
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks in warmer months
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but local declines have been noted in some areas due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, fishing pressure, and bycatch in fishing gear. Conservation efforts are needed to protect their habitats.
- Predators
- Larger sharks and other marine predators
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can blend into their surroundings due to their coloration, providing camouflage from predators.
- Compatible Animals
- other small sharks, rays, various reef fish
- Found in Zoos
- Common