Fin's Fish Guide
The Blunthead shark (Triaenodon obesus) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 213 cm.
Description
The whitetip reef shark is a reef shark (Carcharhinidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a slender, grey body with conspicuous white tips on the first dorsal fin and the upper tail lobe, to which the name refers, and grows to about 1.6 m. It is a sluggish inhabitant of lagoons and seaward reefs, often resting motionless in caves or under coral ledges by day and hunting fishes, crustaceans and octopuses in groups at night. Owing to fishing pressure it is considered vulnerable. It is usually not aggressive, but can bite when disturbed or provoked.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blunthead shark?
The Blunthead shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. White tips on the dorsal fin and tail; rests in reef caves during the day; vulnerable to fishing.
Where does the Blunthead shark live?
The Blunthead shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Blunthead shark get?
The Blunthead shark grows to a maximum of about 213 cm. On average the species is around 160 cm.
Is the Blunthead shark dangerous to humans?
The Blunthead shark can cause injury; handle it with care. A reef shark that may bite when disturbed or provoked; a bite can be serious. Keep your distance, do not touch the animal and, if bitten, seek emergency medical care immediately and stop the bleeding.
Is the Blunthead shark edible?
The Blunthead shark is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Carcharhinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blunthead shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.