Fin's Fish Guide
The Epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiscylliidae that grows up to 107 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea
Description
The Epaulette shark is a bamboo shark (Hemiscylliidae) from shallow coastal waters of the southwest Pacific, around Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 107 cm and has a slender, light-brown with scattered dark spots and a large black eyespot behind each pectoral fin body with barbels and a long, low tail. As a nocturnal, slow bottom-dweller it shelters by day in crevices of coral and rocky reefs and at night crawls over the reef with its pectoral fins in search of worms, crustaceans and small fish. It lays eggs in horny capsules. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Epaulette shark?
The Epaulette shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Epaulette shark live?
The Epaulette shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Epaulette shark get?
The Epaulette shark grows to a maximum of about 107 cm.
Is the Epaulette shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Epaulette shark is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemiscyllium
More from the family Hemiscylliidae
Want the complete picture on the Epaulette shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Epaulette shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.