Caribbean reef shark
📖 Overview
Found on continental and insular shelves, often near drop-offs on the outer edges of reefs. May rest on the bottom . Usually found in reefs, at less than 30 m deep (Ref 26938). Feed on bony fishes, including bigeyes (Priacanthidae). Viviparous . Size at birth below 73 cm. A dangerous species implicated in an abortive attack on divers in the Caribbean. Meat is prepared dried salted for human consumption, hides for leather, liver for oil, carcasses for fish meal.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
A large, gray shark with an interdorsal ridge and short blunt snout. 1st dorsal fin small with short rear tip .: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Caribbean reef shark is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Distinct pairing with embrace . Viviparous, placental .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 65 m , usually 1 - 35 m . Subtropical; 33°N - 35°S, 100°W - 33°W
🌿 Ecology
bony fishes, including bigeyes (Priacanthidae)
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
⚠️ Venom Profile
- immediate intense pain
- swelling
- erythema
- occasional nausea and weakness
Analgesia; wound care; tetanus prophylaxis; severe cases may require monitoring for systemic effects.
References: Compiled from Bhide (2018), Halstead et al. (1988) and family-specific envenomation literature
🎣 Angling Guide
- medium-heavy 7ft spinning rod
- 30-50 lb braid
- fluorocarbon leader
- grass flats
- oyster bars
- marsh drains
- deeper channel edges
Use barbless hooks, minimise air exposure, and revive fish head-first in current before release.
⚠️ Slot limits protect breeding-size fish. Verify daily bag limits.
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Caribbean reef shark is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 23 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 145 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Caribbean reef shark has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carcharhinus springeri | Bigelow & Schroeder | 1944 | Synonym |
| Eulamia springeri | Bigelow & Schroeder | 1944 | Synonym |
| Platypodon perezii | Poey | 1876 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 29 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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