Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktip shark (Carcharhinus sorrah) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 160 cm.
Description
The spot-tail shark is a requiem shark (Carcharhinidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.6 metres and has a slender, streamlined, grey body with conspicuous black tips on the second dorsal fin and lower tail lobe, to which the name refers. It lives on the continental and insular shelves, mainly near reefs, and sometimes in open water. As a fast predator it hunts fishes, cephalopods and crustaceans. Owing to fishing the species is considered near threatened. The sharp teeth can give a serious bite; treat this animal with respect.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktip shark?
The Blacktip shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Black tips on the second dorsal fin and lower caudal lobe; fast reef shark, near threatened.
Where does the Blacktip shark live?
The Blacktip shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; continental and insular shelf near reefs.
How big does the Blacktip shark get?
The Blacktip shark grows to a maximum of about 160 cm.
Is the Blacktip shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacktip shark is harmless to humans. This is a predatory shark that can inflict a serious bite wound; keep your distance, calmly leave the water if it is present, and never handle a caught animal without experience. In case of a bite, stop severe bleeding immediately and call emergency services.
Is the Blacktip shark edible?
Yes, the Blacktip 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 Blacktip shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktip shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.