Caribbean Reef Shark

Caribbean Reef Shark

Carcharhinus perezi

Endangered
Sign in to log this

DESCRIPTION

The Caribbean Reef Shark is a robust, streamlined requiem shark commonly found in tropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly around coral reefs. It is an apex predator, primarily feeding on bony fishes, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Known for its unique ability to rest motionless on the seabed or inside caves, this species typically reaches lengths of 2-2.5 meters and can weigh up to 70 kg.

Max Length 3 m
Max Weight 70 kg
Lifespan 14 - 22 years
Habitat Seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 378 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Nocturnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Caribbean Reef Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Caribbean Reef Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Caribbean Reef Shark

Where can you see the Caribbean Reef Shark?

The Caribbean Reef Shark can be seen at 13 dive destinations in Bahamas, Belize, and Mexico. The best spots include Andros Barrier Reef (Bahamas), Bimini (Bahamas), Cozumel (Mexico), Exuma Cays (Bahamas), and Glovers Reef (Belize).

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

Sightings of the Caribbean Reef Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Isla Mujeres from March to October and Playa del Carmen from April to October.

Can you see the Caribbean Reef Shark all year round?

Yes. At Andros Barrier Reef, Bimini, Exuma Cays, Glovers Reef, and Great Blue Hole, the Caribbean Reef Shark is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Caribbean Reef Shark in Bahamas?

In Bahamas, you can see the Caribbean Reef Shark at Andros Barrier Reef, Bimini, Exuma Cays, Long Island, Nassau, and Tiger Beach.

Where can you see the Caribbean Reef Shark in Belize?

In Belize, you can see the Caribbean Reef Shark at Glovers Reef, Great Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and Turneffe Atoll.

Where can you see the Caribbean Reef Shark in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Caribbean Reef Shark at Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Playa del Carmen.

How big does the Caribbean Reef Shark get?

The Caribbean Reef Shark can reach up to 3 m in length and 70 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Caribbean Reef Shark live in?

The Caribbean Reef Shark is found in these habitats: seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Caribbean Reef Shark live?

The Caribbean Reef Shark lives between 1 and 378 m deep.

What does the Caribbean Reef Shark eat?

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

When is the Caribbean Reef Shark most active?

Active after dark, resting or hidden away during the day. Night dives are when it comes out.

How long does the Caribbean Reef Shark live?

The Caribbean Reef Shark lives 14 to 22 years.

What is the conservation status of the Caribbean Reef Shark?

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

Tell us