Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspot shark (Carcharhinus sealei) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; continental and insular shelves, from the surf zone to some depth.
Description
The blackspot shark is a small reef shark of the requiem shark family (Carcharhinidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about one metre and has a slender, grey-brown body with a conspicuous black spot on the second dorsal fin, to which the name refers. It lives on the continental and insular shelves, from the surf line to some depth, often near the bottom. As a predator it hunts small fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods. Reproduction is viviparous. Though small and not dangerous to humans, it remains a shark with sharp teeth; owing to fishing it is listed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspot shark?
The Blackspot shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Striking black blotch on the second dorsal fin; small, ovoviviparous reef shark, vulnerable (VU).
Where does the Blackspot shark live?
The Blackspot shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; continental and insular shelves, from the surf zone to some depth.
How big does the Blackspot shark get?
The Blackspot shark grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Blackspot shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspot shark is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a shark with sharp teeth; keep clear of the mouth and handle a caught or hooked shark with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Blackspot shark edible?
Yes, the Blackspot shark is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carcharhinus
More from the family Carcharhinidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspot shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspot shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.