How to Identify Caribbean Reef Shark

To identify Caribbean Reef Shark (Carcharhinus perezi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically dark grey to grey-brown, fading to a white or whitish underside. Fins may have dusky tips, but generally lack prominent markings.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Relatively large, rounded snout., No interdorsal ridge (a key distinguishing feature from many other Carcharhinus species)., First dorsal fin is large and triangular, originating over or slightly in front of the pectoral fin free rear tips., Second dorsal fin is relatively small., Pectoral fins are long and somewhat pointed.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins. The first is large, triangular, and originates over or slightly anterior to the free rear tips of the pectoral fins. The second dorsal fin is much smaller and originates over or slightly anterior to the anal fin.

Tail fin

Heterocercal caudal fin, with a well-developed ventral lobe and a prominent notch near the tip of the dorsal lobe.

Pectoral fin

Long, somewhat pointed, and falcate (sickle-shaped).

Distinctive fins

Absence of an interdorsal ridge between the first and second dorsal fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Interdorsal Ridge

   The most reliable field mark is the absence of an interdorsal ridge between the first and second dorsal fins. Many other Carcharhinus species in its range possess this ridge.

2. 2

   First Dorsal Fin Origin

   The origin of the first dorsal fin is typically over or slightly anterior to the free rear tips of the pectoral fins.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Uniform grey to grey-brown dorsal coloration with a white belly, lacking prominent fin markings (though dusky tips can occur).

4. 4

   Snout Shape

   Possesses a relatively short and broadly rounded snout.

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