Bigeye Thresher Shark

Bigeye Thresher Shark

Alopias superciliosus

Vulnerable
Sign in to log this

DESCRIPTION

The Bigeye Thresher (Alopias superciliosus) is a large pelagic shark characterized by its exceptionally large eyes adapted for low-light hunting and a whip-like caudal fin, which can be nearly half its total body length and is used to stun prey. It performs daily vertical migrations, residing in deep waters during the day and ascending to surface waters at night to feed on fish and squid. This species is found in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide and is currently listed as Vulnerable.

Max Length 488 cm
Max Weight 363.8 kg
Lifespan 19 - 28 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 1013 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Solitary
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Bigeye Thresher Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Bigeye Thresher Shark

Range

Where Bigeye Thresher Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Bigeye Thresher Shark

Where can you see the Bigeye Thresher Shark?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark can be seen at 7 dive destinations in Egypt and Mexico. The best spots include Brothers Islands (Egypt), Daedalus Reef (Egypt), Elphinstone Reef (Egypt), Isla Mujeres (Mexico), and Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico).

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

Sightings of the Bigeye Thresher Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Brothers Islands from September to November, Daedalus Reef from September to November, and Elphinstone Reef from September to November.

Where can you see the Bigeye Thresher Shark in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Bigeye Thresher Shark at Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Bigeye Thresher Shark in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Bigeye Thresher Shark at Isla Mujeres, Revillagigedo Islands, and Socorro Islands.

How big does the Bigeye Thresher Shark get?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark can reach up to 488 cm in length and 363.8 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Bigeye Thresher Shark live in?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water.

How deep does the Bigeye Thresher Shark live?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark lives from the surface down to 1013 m.

What does the Bigeye Thresher Shark eat?

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

When is the Bigeye Thresher Shark most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

Does the Bigeye Thresher Shark live in groups?

No. The Bigeye Thresher Shark is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Bigeye Thresher Shark live?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark lives 19 to 28 years.

What is the conservation status of the Bigeye Thresher Shark?

The Bigeye Thresher Shark is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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

Tell us