Come identificare Blacktip Reef Shark

Per identificare Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

torpedo

Colorazione

Dorsal surface is typically grey to grey-brown, fading to a white or pale ventral surface. The most distinctive feature is the prominent black tips on all fins, especially the first dorsal fin and the lower lobe of the caudal fin, often bordered by a narrow white margin.

Tipo di squame

placoid

Posizione della bocca

inferior

Caratteristiche distintive

Prominent black tips on all fins, particularly the first dorsal and caudal fins., Relatively short, blunt snout., Small, serrated teeth in both jaws., No interdorsal ridge.

Pinna dorsale

Two dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is moderately large, triangular, and originates over or slightly anterior to the pectoral fin axil. It has a prominent black tip. The second dorsal fin is much smaller, located over the anal fin, and also has a black tip.

Pinna caudale

Heterocercal caudal fin with a well-developed lower lobe and a prominent black tip on the lower lobe.

Pinna pettorale

Moderately large and falcate (sickle-shaped), with black tips.

Pinne distintive

All fins, including pelvic and anal fins, typically bear distinct black tips, often with a narrow, lighter margin.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Fin Coloration

   Look for the distinct black tips on all fins, especially the first dorsal fin and the lower lobe of the caudal fin. These black tips are often bordered by a narrow, lighter band.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   A relatively small, slender shark, typically reaching lengths of 1.6 meters (5.2 feet), with a maximum recorded length of about 2 meters (6.6 feet). Its snout is short and blunt.

3. 3

   Habitat

   Often observed in very shallow, clear reef environments, sometimes with its dorsal fin exposed above the water surface.

4. 4

   Absence of Interdorsal Ridge

   Unlike some other Carcharhinus species, the Blacktip Reef Shark lacks a ridge between its two dorsal fins.

Esplora Blacktip Reef Shark