Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktail reef shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 255 cm.
Description
The grey reef shark is a requiem shark (Carcharhinidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a streamlined, grey body with a conspicuously black-edged tail fin. It occurs on continental and insular shelves and adjacent oceanic waters, and is common on coral reefs. As an apex predator it hunts reef fishes, squids and crustaceans. Owing to fishing pressure it is considered endangered. It is not venomous, but can bite when disturbed or when food is present and sometimes shows a warning threat display.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktail reef shark?
The Blacktail reef shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Black-edged caudal fin; apex predator of coral reefs, threatened by fishing, can display threat swimming.
Where does the Blacktail reef shark live?
The Blacktail reef shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral reefs and adjacent waters.
How big does the Blacktail reef shark get?
The Blacktail reef shark grows to a maximum of about 255 cm.
Is the Blacktail reef shark dangerous to humans?
The Blacktail reef shark can cause injury; handle it with care. Keep your distance: this is a large predatory shark that may bite when disturbed or when food is present. Leave the water calmly if it shows threatening behaviour. A bite requires immediate bleeding control and emergency medical care.
Is the Blacktail reef shark edible?
Yes, the Blacktail reef 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 Blacktail reef shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktail reef shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.