How to Identify Tiger Shark

To identify Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark grey to bluish-green, fading to a white or yellowish-white ventral surface. Juveniles and sub-adults exhibit prominent dark, vertical stripes or blotches on their flanks, which become less distinct and fade with age, often disappearing entirely in large adults.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Blunt, short snout, Large mouth with highly serrated, cockscomb-shaped teeth, Long upper caudal fin lobe, Prominent spiracles behind the eyes, Distinctive dark vertical stripes (especially in younger individuals)

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is large and originates over the pectoral fin axil, the second is much smaller and located over the anal fin.

Tail fin

Heterocercal caudal fin with a long, pointed upper lobe and a shorter, notched lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Large, broad, and falcate (sickle-shaped) pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin present, located posterior to the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   Look for the distinctive dark vertical stripes or blotches on the flanks, especially in younger individuals. These fade with age but are a key identifier.

2. 2

   Snout and Mouth

   Observe the blunt, short snout and the large, wide mouth. The teeth are unique: highly serrated with a distinct cockscomb shape, designed for shearing through tough materials.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   Note the long, pointed upper lobe of the caudal (tail) fin, which is characteristic of the species.

4. 4

   Spiracles

   Presence of prominent spiracles behind the eyes, which are relatively large compared to many other requiem sharks.

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