Blacktip Reef Shark

Blacktip Reef Shark

Carcharhinus melanopterus

Vulnerable
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DESCRIPTION

A small, agile requiem shark recognized by the distinctive black tips on its dorsal, caudal, and pectoral fins. Commonly found patrolling shallow coral reefs and lagoons, it is one of the most frequently encountered reef sharks in the Indo-Pacific.

Max Length 2 m
Max Weight 14 kg
Lifespan 10 - 15 years
Habitat Coastal zone and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 75 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Variable
Social Behavior Small groups
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Blacktip Reef Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Blacktip Reef Shark

Range

Where Blacktip Reef Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Blacktip Reef Shark

Where can you see the Blacktip Reef Shark?

The Blacktip Reef Shark can be seen at 28 dive destinations in 7 countries. The best spots include Apo Reef (Philippines), Ari Atoll (Maldives), Baa Atoll (Maldives), Koh Lipe (Thailand), and Koh Tao (Thailand).

What is the best time to see the Blacktip Reef Shark?

Sightings of the Blacktip Reef Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Tubbataha Reefs from March to June and Richelieu Rock from February to May and from October to December.

Can you see the Blacktip Reef Shark all year round?

Yes. At Apo Reef, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Koh Lipe, and Koh Tao, the Blacktip Reef Shark is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Blacktip Reef Shark in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Blacktip Reef Shark at Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, North Male Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Addu Atoll, and Fuvahmulah.

Where can you see the Blacktip Reef Shark in Thailand?

In Thailand, you can see the Blacktip Reef Shark at Koh Lipe, Koh Tao, Richelieu Rock, and Similan Islands.

Where can you see the Blacktip Reef Shark in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Blacktip Reef Shark at Apo Reef, Tubbataha Reefs, and Malapascua.

How big does the Blacktip Reef Shark get?

The Blacktip Reef Shark can reach up to 2 m in length and 14 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Blacktip Reef Shark live in?

The Blacktip Reef Shark is found in these habitats: coastal zone and coral reef.

How deep does the Blacktip Reef Shark live?

The Blacktip Reef Shark lives from the surface down to 75 m.

What does the Blacktip Reef Shark eat?

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

When is the Blacktip Reef Shark most active?

Its rhythm shifts with the season, the tide or the region, so the same species may be active by day in one place and by night in another.

How long does the Blacktip Reef Shark live?

The Blacktip Reef Shark lives 10 to 15 years.

What is the conservation status of the Blacktip Reef Shark?

The Blacktip Reef 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 Blacktip Reef Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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