Leopard Shark
Triakis semifasciata
Identification: The body of the leopard
shark is elongate, and the snout is short and bluntly
rounded. This shark is easily identified by the gray coloration over most of
its
body, and the black spots and crossbars on the back and side. It is white
underneath.
Maximum Length: 72.0+"
Origin: Mazatlan, Mexico, to Oregon. This well
decorated species is abundant in bays and along
sandy beaches of southern and central California in shallow water. During the
fall, large
numbers may be found in San Francisco and Monterey Bays.
Minimum tank size: 10000 Gallon
Behavior: They are found most often off the
California coast and grow to about 5-6 feet.
They are very active sharks.
Feeding and diet: This shark feeds on benthic
(bottom-dwelling) prey such as worms, clams,
crabs, shrimp, octopus, and small fish. It has small, pointed teeth which
it
uses to capture its prey.
Reef Compatibility: Definitely Not. Sharks of this species under 36 inches in length are protected by the Lacey Act and are ILLEGAL.
Cautions: Very aggressive and has sharp teeth.
Return to Sharks Home Fish Index
Copyright © 2002-06 Poseidon's Realm