The Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 360 cm.
Description
The bull shark (also Zambezi shark) is a heavy, stocky shark of the family Carcharhinidae reaching about 3.5 metres. The grey body with white belly has a strikingly blunt, broad snout and two dorsal fins. The species is unique among large sharks in tolerating fresh water extremely well: it swims up bays, estuaries and rivers and has been found hundreds of kilometres inland, including in great tropical rivers. It lives worldwide in warm coastal seas and hunts fish, other sharks and rays, sea turtles, marine mammals and carrion. Females give birth to live young in shallow coastal water. Because of its power, size and presence in shallow water near people it is regarded as one of the most dangerous sharks. The species is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bull shark?
The Bull shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Bull shark live?
The Bull shark lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Bull shark get?
The Bull shark grows to a maximum of about 360 cm. On average the species is around 260 cm.
Is the Bull shark dangerous to humans?
The Bull shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans.
Is the Bull shark edible?
The Bull shark is rarely eaten.
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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
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