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The Coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus) is a small, slender bottom-dwelling shark belonging to the family Scyliorhinidae. It is characterized by its distinctive mottled coloration, which provides excellent camouflage against coral and rocky substrates. This species is nocturnal, spending its days hidden in crevices and emerging at night to hunt small invertebrates and fishes. It is a popular species in the aquarium trade due to its manageable size and attractive appearance.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is typically light brown to greyish-brown, heavily mottled with dark brown to black spots, blotches, and saddles. These markings often form a reticulated or marbled pattern, providing excellent camouflage. The underside is pale white to yellowish.
- Scale type
- placoid
- Mouth position
- inferior
- Distinctive features
- Slender, cylindrical body, Small, cat-like eyes with nictitating membranes, Two dorsal fins of similar size, set far back on the body, Distinctive mottled and spotted coloration, Nasal barbels present
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins, nearly equal in size, located far posterior on the body. The first dorsal fin originates over the posterior half of the pelvic fin bases. The second dorsal fin is slightly smaller than the first.
- Tail fin
- Long, low caudal fin with a distinct subterminal notch and no ventral lobe.
- Pectoral fin
- Moderately large and rounded.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are relatively small. Anal fin is absent.
Identification Tips
Body coloration and pattern
Look for the distinctive marbled or reticulated pattern of dark spots and blotches on a lighter brown or grey background. This is the most reliable visual identifier.
Body shape
Its slender, elongated body is characteristic of catsharks.
Dorsal fin position
Note the two dorsal fins are positioned far back on the body, with the first dorsal originating over the pelvic fins.
Nasal barbels
Presence of small, fleshy barbels near the nostrils.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow waters from 0 to 30 meters (0-98 feet), occasionally down to 100 meters (328 feet).
- Environment
- Associated with coral reefs, rocky bottoms, and sandy areas adjacent to reefs. They prefer areas with abundant crevices and caves for shelter during the day.
- Geographic range
- Indo-West Pacific, ranging from India and Sri Lanka eastward to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines, north to Taiwan, and south to northern Australia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 180 gallons (680 liters)
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Generally compatible with other peaceful, larger fish that won't outcompete it for food or harass it. Avoid aggressive or very large tank mates. Not suitable for reef tanks with small crustaceans or fish that could become prey.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding places. A sand or fine gravel substrate is preferred. Excellent water quality and strong filtration are essential. Provide a secure lid as they can jump. Feed a varied diet of meaty foods.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: near threatened
- Seasonality: Breeds year-round, with egg-laying occurring throughout the year.
- Market price: N/A (primarily aquarium trade)
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: N/A
- Texture: N/A
- Nutritional value: N/A
Key Facts
Nocturnal Hunterbehavior
Coral catsharks are primarily nocturnal, spending their days resting in reef crevices and emerging at night to forage for food.
Egg-laying Sharkbehavior
This species is oviparous, meaning it lays eggs. The eggs are encased in distinctive, purse-shaped egg cases with tendrils that help anchor them to the substrate.
Excellent Camouflageinteresting
Their mottled coloration provides superb camouflage, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the complex patterns of coral reefs and rocky environments.
Aquarium Favoriteinteresting
Due to their relatively small size and attractive appearance, Coral catsharks are a popular choice for experienced marine aquarists.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: Coral catsharks are generally docile and pose no threat to humans. When handling in an aquarium setting, avoid stressing the animal. They may nip if severely provoked, but their small teeth are unlikely to cause significant injury. Always support the body adequately if removal from water is necessary.
Similar Species
Banded catshark
Atelomycterus fasciatus
The Banded catshark has distinct dark bands across its body, rather than the mottled or marbled pattern of the Coral catshark. Its bands are typically more regular and pronounced.
Australian marbled catshark
Atelomycterus macleayi
While also marbled, A. macleayi generally has a more uniform brown coloration with less distinct, smaller spots and blotches, and a more restricted geographic range (northern Australia).
Brownbanded bamboo shark
Chiloscyllium punctatum
Bamboo sharks have a more robust body, a much longer precaudal tail, and typically have distinct dark bands (especially when juvenile) or a more uniform coloration, lacking the intricate marbled pattern of the Coral catshark. Their mouth is also more anterior.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Chondrichthyes
- Order
- Carcharhiniformes
- Family
- Scyliorhinidae
- Genus
- Atelomycterus
- Species
- marmoratus
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