Blacktip reef shark

Carcharhinus melanopterus
Blacktip reef shark
Taille max : 2 mètres

 

Geographical distribution:
Indo-Pacific

 

Biology:
This is one  of the most beautiful reef sharks and owes its name to the black tips on its fins.  Its hydrodynamic body makes it an active, strong swimmer.  It develops in  shallow waters on the edges of lagoons and must be always on the move in order to breathe, otherwise it will drown.  
The blacktip reef shark is viviparous (the females give birth to their young at the end of their embryonic development) and after 9 months’ gestation the female gives birth to 4 small black dots, each around 50cms.  Giving birth to young in this way is the result of an evolutionary process for the shark.  This form of reproduction is generally only found in mammals.  
The blacktip reef shark is easily frightened and usually flees.  When the divers go into the aquarium, these sharks always keep at a safe distance.

 

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