Silky Shark

Silky Shark

Carcharhinus falciformis

Vulnerable

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The Silky Shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) is a large, slender requiem shark named for the smooth texture of its skin, attributed to densely packed dermal denticles. It is a highly migratory species found in warm tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, often associating with schools of tuna and oceanic fronts. These opportunistic carnivores primarily feed on bony fishes and cephalopods, exhibiting agile and fast hunting behaviors.

Max Length 3.5 m
Max Weight 346 kg
Lifespan 16 - 36 years
Habitat Coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 4000 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
Range

Where Silky Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Silky Shark

Where can you see the Silky Shark?

The Silky Shark can be seen at 26 dive destinations in 10 countries. The best spots include Brothers Islands (Egypt), Daedalus Reef (Egypt), Elphinstone Reef (Egypt), Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico), and Socorro Islands (Mexico).

What is the best time to see the Silky Shark?

Sightings of the Silky Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Brothers Islands from April to September, Daedalus Reef from April to September, Elphinstone Reef from April to September, and Revillagigedo Islands from February to October.

Can you see the Silky Shark all year round?

Yes. At Fuvahmulah, the Silky Shark is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Silky Shark in Egypt?

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

Where can you see the Silky Shark in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Silky Shark at Revillagigedo Islands, Socorro Islands, Baja California Sur, and Isla Mujeres.

Where can you see the Silky Shark in Bahamas?

In Bahamas, you can see the Silky Shark at Andros Barrier Reef, Bimini, Exuma Cays, and Nassau.

How big does the Silky Shark get?

The Silky Shark can reach up to 3.5 m in length and 346 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Silky Shark live in?

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

How deep does the Silky Shark live?

The Silky Shark lives from the surface down to 4000 m.

What does the Silky Shark eat?

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

When is the Silky 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.

How long does the Silky Shark live?

The Silky Shark lives 16 to 36 years.

What is the conservation status of the Silky Shark?

The Silky 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 Silky Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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