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Where Does Blacktip Reef Shark Live?

Carcharhinus melanopterus

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Blacktip Reef Shark lives in specific habitats. Knowing where to look helps you find and identify it.

Where to find Blacktip Reef Shark

Water type
saltwater
Depth
Typically found in very shallow waters, from the intertidal zone down to about 75 meters (246 feet), but most commonly observed in depths of 0.3-3 meters (1-10 feet).
Environment
Prefers warm, tropical and subtropical coastal waters, particularly associated with coral reefs, sandy flats, mangrove estuaries, and shallow lagoons. Often seen patrolling reef edges and channels.
Geographic range
Widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and the Tuamoto Archipelago. Its range extends north to southern Japan and south to northern Australia.

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