Zebra Shark

The Zebra Shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) is a distinctive, docile carpet shark in the family Stegostomatidae, widespread across tropical Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It is named for the bold dark and pale stripes of juveniles, which transform into a leopard-like spotted pattern in adults, leading to the alternate name 'leopard shark' in parts of its range, unrelated to the California Leopard Shark. Instantly recognizable by its long, ridged body and exceptionally long caudal fin, it is a popular species in public aquariums and with recreational divers due to its calm, approachable nature. The species is classified as Endangered because of targeted fishing and habitat degradation across much of its range.

Key field marks:

• Slender, cylindrical body with five longitudinal ridges running its length
• Juveniles: bold dark brown or black and pale yellow stripes
• Adults: yellowish-tan background covered in dark spots
• Extremely long caudal fin, nearly half the total body length
• Small mouth positioned well forward, with short barbels

The dramatic change from stripes to spots as the animal grows, combined with the long ridged tail, makes this species unmistakable.

Occurs across the tropical Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and southern Japan. Inhabits shallow coral and rocky reefs, sandy flats, and lagoons, typically from the surface to about 60 m depth. Frequently rests on open sand patches near reefs during the day. Prefers warm tropical waters and is closely tied to healthy reef and reef-adjacent sand habitats for both foraging and egg-laying.

Zebra Sharks are largely nocturnal and solitary, resting motionless on the sea floor by day and actively foraging at night using their small, flexible mouths and barbels to root out mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish from sand and crevices. They are notably docile toward divers and can often be closely approached. Reproduction is oviparous, with females depositing large, dark egg cases anchored to the substrate by tendrils; the species has also shown occasional facultative parthenogenesis in captivity. Zebra Sharks are a focus of active reef restocking and captive-breeding conservation programs.