Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Triakidae that grows up to 198 cm.
Description
The leopard shark is a handsomely marked houndshark of the family Triakidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about two metres and has a slender, grey body with conspicuous dark saddle blotches and spots, like a leopard. It lives in shallow water from the intertidal to deeper waters, most commonly in sheltered bays, estuaries and kelp forests, often in large schools. As a bottom hunter it feeds on crabs, shrimps, worms, shellfish and small fishes. The leopard shark is not dangerous to humans and is often seen by divers, but it remains a shark with sharp teeth; handle a caught specimen with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard shark?
The Leopard shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Leopard-like dark saddle blotches and spots; forms large shoals, not dangerous but a shark nonetheless.
Where does the Leopard shark live?
The Leopard shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sheltered bays, estuaries and kelp forests.
How big does the Leopard shark get?
The Leopard shark grows to a maximum of about 198 cm. On average the species is around 160 cm.
Is the Leopard shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Leopard shark is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a shark with sharp teeth; keep clear of the mouth of a caught or hooked shark and handle only with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Leopard shark edible?
Yes, the Leopard 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 Triakis
More from the family Triakidae
Want the complete picture on the Leopard shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.