Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspot shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 350 cm.
Tropical seas worldwide, near continental and island shelves and in the open sea.
Description
The silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) is a large requiem shark of the family Carcharhinidae occurring worldwide in tropical seas. The species owes its name to its smooth, silky skin and has a slender, streamlined, grey-brown body that can reach several metres. It lives mainly near the edge of continental and insular shelves, but also in the open sea, and is a fast, active hunter of fishes and squid. Owing to the high value of its fins and flesh the species is heavily fished, making it Vulnerable (VU). Large individuals can be dangerous to humans.
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. Smooth, silky skin; fast pelagic hunter, heavily fished for its fins and flesh (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. Tropical seas worldwide, near continental and island shelves and in the open sea.
How big does the Blackspot shark get?
The Blackspot shark grows to a maximum of about 350 cm. On average the species is around 250 cm.
Is the Blackspot shark dangerous to humans?
The Blackspot shark can cause injury; handle it with care. Large individuals can cause severe, lacerating bite wounds with major blood loss. Get the victim out of the water, control bleeding immediately with firm pressure and/or a pressure bandage, elevate the limb and call emergency services; treat for shock and hypothermia.
Is the Blackspot shark edible?
Yes, the Blackspot shark is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blackspot shark and live in the same waters.
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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.