Fin's Fish Guide
The White-spotted bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium plagiosum) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiscylliidae that grows up to 83 cm.
Description
The whitespotted bamboo shark is a small bottom shark of the bamboo shark family (Hemiscylliidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 83 cm and has a slender, brown-banded body with numerous white spots and barbels at the nostrils. It is a common but little-known inshore bottom shark of rocky and coral reefs, resting by day in crevices and foraging at night. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and molluscs. Reproduction is oviparous. It is a calm, small shark often kept in aquaria, but as a shark with teeth it should be handled with care. Owing to fishing it is listed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White-spotted bamboo shark?
The White-spotted bamboo shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Brown-banded with white spots; calm, small nocturnal bottom shark, near threatened (NT).
Where does the White-spotted bamboo shark live?
The White-spotted bamboo shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; rocky and coral reefs of shallow coastal waters.
How big does the White-spotted bamboo shark get?
The White-spotted bamboo shark grows to a maximum of about 83 cm.
Is the White-spotted bamboo shark dangerous to humans?
No, the White-spotted bamboo shark is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a shark with sharp teeth; keep clear of the mouth, do not corner it and handle a caught or hooked shark with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the White-spotted bamboo shark edible?
Yes, the White-spotted bamboo 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 Chiloscyllium
More from the family Hemiscylliidae
Want the complete picture on the White-spotted bamboo shark?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-spotted bamboo shark is one of 12,519 species in the app.