Fin's Fish Guide
The Smalltail shark (Carcharhinus porosus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carcharhinidae that grows up to 150 cm.
North America: Brazil, Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador and others
Description
The smalltail shark is a small requiem shark (Carcharhinidae) from shallow, turbid coastal and estuarine waters of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has a slender, grey body with a pale belly, a long pointed snout and the typical shark shape. As a predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid in schools. It is not especially aggressive, but as a requiem shark it can bite if disturbed or when handled in fisheries; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smalltail shark?
The Smalltail shark has a torpedo-shaped body. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Smalltail shark live?
The Smalltail shark lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Brazil, Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador and others
How big does the Smalltail shark get?
The Smalltail shark grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 90 cm.
Is the Smalltail shark dangerous to humans?
The Smalltail shark can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Keep your distance and handle caught animals carefully. For a bite: apply firm pressure to stop bleeding, rinse with clean water and cover with a sterile dressing. Shark bites are deep and prone to infection: always seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Smalltail shark edible?
Yes, the Smalltail shark is commonly 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
Want the complete picture on the Smalltail shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smalltail shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.