Fin's Fish Guide
The Oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 400 cm.
Widespread in deep, open water of warm seas worldwide, pelagic and far from the coast.
Description
The oceanic whitetip shark is a robust oceanic shark of the family Carcharhinidae reaching about 4 metres. Characteristic are the very long, broad, rounded pectoral fins and the tall, rounded first dorsal fin, all with white, mottled tips. The grey, streamlined body is built for life in the open ocean. The species lives pelagically in deep, warm water worldwide, far from the coast, and ranges over great distances. It is a slow but bold and curious hunter of open-water fish such as tuna and mackerel, squid and carrion, and is notorious for approaching shipwreck survivors. Through the fin trade and bycatch it has collapsed worldwide and is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oceanic whitetip shark?
The Oceanic whitetip shark has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Robust oceanic shark with very long, broad, rounded pectoral and first dorsal fins with white, mottled tips; a slow but fearless open-water hunter. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Oceanic whitetip shark live?
The Oceanic whitetip shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in deep, open water of warm seas worldwide, pelagic and far from the coast.
How big does the Oceanic whitetip shark get?
The Oceanic whitetip shark grows to a maximum of about 400 cm. On average the species is around 270 cm.
Is the Oceanic whitetip shark dangerous to humans?
The Oceanic whitetip shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Not venomous, but a large predatory shark with sharp teeth: keep your distance from a hooked or landed shark and handle only with proper equipment.
Is the Oceanic whitetip shark edible?
The Oceanic whitetip shark is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Oceanic whitetip 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 Oceanic whitetip shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Oceanic whitetip shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.