Rhizoprionodon terraenovae
77cm
0-280m
184 sites
Look for a slender body with a long, pointed snout that extends significantly beyond its mouth – this is the 'sharpnose' that gives them their name! They are typically a greyish-brown to olive-grey colour, often with a paler underside. A key identifying feature is the presence of small, dark spots on their upper body, particularly on the flanks. Their first dorsal fin originates behind the pectoral fin's rear tip. They are typically seen swimming alone or in small groups.
Carcharhinidae
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, a member of the requiem shark family, is a sleek and slender shark often encountered in warmer coastal waters. Growing to a typical size of around 77cm, but potentially reaching up to 110cm, these sharks are a common sight for snorkellers and divers in the Eastern Pacific, North Atlantic, Caribbean, and South Atlantic. While they might not be the biggest shark in the sea, their graceful movements and inquisitive nature make them a rewarding encounter. Divers will typically find them cruising along the seabed (demersal) in depths up to 280m, often in sandy or muddy areas near estuaries and bays. Although they have a diver appeal score of 4/5, they are not seen at any known dive sites.
Whitetip Reef Shark
112 sites
