How to Identify Whitetip Reef Shark

To identify Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically grey to brownish-grey, fading to a lighter ventral surface. The most distinctive feature is the prominent white tip on the first dorsal fin and the upper lobe of the caudal fin. Some individuals may also have a white tip on the second dorsal fin and pectoral fins.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Prominent white tips on the first dorsal fin and upper caudal fin lobe., Slender body with a relatively short, broad snout., Small, oval eyes with vertical pupils., Nasal flaps are tubular and pointed., Five short gill slits, the last two over the pectoral fin origin.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is large and triangular, originating behind the pectoral fin bases. The second dorsal fin is much smaller, originating over or slightly in front of the anal fin.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is asymmetrical with a well-developed upper lobe and a smaller, but distinct, lower lobe. The upper lobe has a prominent white tip.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are broad and somewhat triangular.

Distinctive fins

The white tips on the first dorsal and upper caudal fins are the most distinctive fin features.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   White Fin Tips

   Look for the distinct white tips on the first dorsal fin and the upper lobe of the caudal fin. This is the most reliable identification feature.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   A relatively small and slender shark, typically reaching a maximum length of about 1.6 meters (5.2 feet), though most adults are around 1.2-1.4 meters (3.9-4.6 feet).

3. 3

   Snout and Eyes

   Observe its short, broad snout and small, oval eyes with vertical pupils, which are characteristic of nocturnal hunters.

4. 4

   Behavior

   Often seen resting motionless on the seabed or inside caves during the day, becoming active at night to hunt.

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