Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 286 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, in shallow coastal water, bays, estuaries and near river mouths.
Description
The blacktip shark is a slender, fast requiem shark of the family Carcharhinidae reaching about 2.9 metres. The grey, streamlined body has a pointed snout and characteristic black tips on most fins. The species often hunts in groups on schools of sardines and herrings, sometimes leaping and spinning out of the water. It lives in shallow, warm coastal water, bays and estuaries and sometimes enters river mouths, worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas. It is viviparous; the young are born in shallow nursery areas. Although shy, it can become excited around bait. Through heavy fishing and bycatch it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
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. Slender, fast requiem shark with a pointed snout and black tips on most fins; sometimes leaps spinning out of the water while hunting.
Where does the Blacktip shark live?
The Blacktip shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, in shallow coastal water, bays, estuaries and near river mouths.
How big does the Blacktip shark get?
The Blacktip shark grows to a maximum of about 286 cm. On average the species is around 150 cm.
Is the Blacktip shark dangerous to humans?
The Blacktip shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Not venomous, but a predatory shark with sharp teeth: keep your distance from a hooked or landed shark and handle only with proper equipment.
Is the Blacktip shark edible?
Yes, the Blacktip shark is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blacktip 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 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.