The Sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Odontaspididae that grows up to 330 cm.
Description
The sand tiger shark is a large, bulky shark of the family Odontaspididae reaching about 3.3 metres. The grey-brown body with faint rusty spots has a flat snout and a grinning mouth full of long, protruding, needle-like teeth, which make it look more dangerous than it is. The sand tiger can gulp air and hold it in its stomach to hang almost motionless in the water. The species lives near sand bottoms, reefs and wrecks of warm and temperate coastal seas worldwide, including the Mediterranean. It hunts mainly at night for fish, small sharks and rays, squid and crustaceans. Because of its very slow reproduction and heavy fishing it is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sand tiger shark?
The Sand tiger shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Sand tiger shark live?
The Sand tiger shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Sand tiger shark get?
The Sand tiger shark grows to a maximum of about 330 cm. On average the species is around 250 cm.
Is the Sand tiger shark dangerous to humans?
The Sand tiger shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans.
Is the Sand tiger shark edible?
The Sand tiger shark is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Odontaspididae
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