Pelagic Thresher Shark

Pelagic Thresher Shark

Alopias pelagicus

Endangered
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DESCRIPTION

The Pelagic Thresher Shark is recognizable by its extremely long caudal fin, which can be as long as its body and is used to stun prey. It is an active, fast-swimming carnivore found in tropical and subtropical open ocean waters, often near the surface but capable of diving to considerable depths. This species exhibits ovoviviparity and is unfortunately classified as Endangered due to overfishing and slow reproductive rates.

Max Length 4.3 m
Max Weight 88.4 kg
Lifespan 14 - 29 years
Habitat Coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 700 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Pelagic Thresher Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Pelagic Thresher Shark

Range

Where Pelagic Thresher Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Pelagic Thresher Shark

Where can you see the Pelagic Thresher Shark?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark can be seen at 10 dive destinations in Philippines, Mexico, Maldives, Ecuador, and Australia. The best spots include Apo Reef (Philippines), Fuvahmulah (Maldives), Malapascua (Philippines), Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico), and Galapagos Islands (Ecuador).

What is the best time to see the Pelagic Thresher Shark?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark can be seen all year round at Fuvahmulah and Malapascua.

Where can you see the Pelagic Thresher Shark in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Pelagic Thresher Shark at Apo Reef and Malapascua.

Where can you see the Pelagic Thresher Shark in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Pelagic Thresher Shark at Revillagigedo Islands and Socorro Islands.

Where can you see the Pelagic Thresher Shark in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Pelagic Thresher Shark at Fuvahmulah.

How big does the Pelagic Thresher Shark get?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark can reach up to 4.3 m in length and 88.4 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Pelagic Thresher Shark live in?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark is found in these habitats: coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Pelagic Thresher Shark live?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark lives from the surface down to 700 m.

What does the Pelagic Thresher Shark eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Pelagic Thresher Shark most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Pelagic Thresher Shark live?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark lives 14 to 29 years.

What is the conservation status of the Pelagic Thresher Shark?

The Pelagic Thresher Shark is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Pelagic Thresher Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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