Sandbar shark

Sandbar shark
Carcharinus plumbeus
Max. size: 2.5 m

 

Geographical distribution:
Tropical and sub-tropical waters

 

Biology:
With a body shape particularly adapted to predation, the sandbar shark belongs to the group of cartilaginous fish which have reigned as masters of the seas for 450  million years.  This carnivore, the last link in the food chain, has an impressive jaw with teeth that are continuously renewed, like all sharks.

Its name comes from its predominantly grey colour, its stomach is a little lighter.
The sandbar shark is viviparous and after 12 months’ gestation, the female gives birth to 5 or up to 10 young, each around 50 centimetres long.
As it has no branchial muscles, the sandbar shark has to swim constantly to circulate the water in its mouth in order not to suffocate.
This is not a very dangerous shark for man, but it has the reputation of being very curious and will happily approach divers.

 

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