Black Tip Sharks

As you may know from reading about sharks, there are over 460 known species that are present on our planet. These different shark species come in many different shapes and sizes. On one side of the spectrum, you have the hammerhead, whose oddly shaped head allows it detect prey easier and fight off any potential threats. On the other side of the spectrum, you have the whale shark, whose docile nature may come as a surprise for some. Of course, there are hundreds of shark species that fall right in-between these two extremes. One of those shark species would be the Black Tip Shark.

Black Tip Sharks

Black Tip Sharks, also known as the Carcharhinus Limbatus, are an average size shark and have been the topic of many shark attacks in the Atlantic waters. They’ve acquired their name because of their black tipped snouts and dorsal fins. These Black Tips can be found on the other fins of the shark as well. The uniquely-colored tips have made Black Tips Sharks quite a sight to see for marine biologists and fellow shark lovers.

Are you curious for more information on these Black Tip Sharks? Luckily, our team at Sharksider has a deep passion for this wondrous species, as well as other shark species. Let’s explain the Black Tip Shark habitat and behavior in order for you to become better educated on the subject.

Habitat And Interaction With Humans

Map Of The Black Tip Shark’s Habitat

Black Tip Shark Habitat Map

The Black Tip Shark is usually found in warm and shallow waters. These areas include coral reefs around the Indo-Pacific Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. There are also many sightings of Black Tip Sharks located on the eastern coast of the United States. If you’re an avid surfer and resident of Florida, you may have already been introduced to these sharks. Unfortunately, and as stated before, Black Tip Sharks have been the focus of many attacks in the United States. In fact, Black Tip Shark attacks make up about 16 percent of the shark bites that occur within the state of Florida! There have been many other reported attacks in the waters that were also mentioned earlier (Indo-Pacific, Mediterranean).

On the bright side, because of the Black Tip Shark’s inclination to stay in shallower waters, you should be able to easily identify one. On top of that, if you’re a surfer, you will be further out in deeper waters, lessening your chances of encountering of these sharks. According to the International Shark Attack File, there were 42 documented Black Tip Shark attacks to humans, with only one of them resulting in a fatality. Most of the time, these black tip shark attacks result in minor wounds. With that being said, an unbitten human is better than a shark victim, so make sure to be careful when swimming in these waters!

Black Tip Shark

Possibly one of the reasons for these somewhat common shark attacks lies in the Black Tip Shark’s nature. Their hunting behavior is that of someone who is athletic and energetic! Black Tip Sharks have the ability to catapult themselves out of the water in order to hunt for their usual prey, which usually includes small fish such as sardines, herrings, groupers, and rays. It’s unknown exactly why Black Tip Sharks have decided to adopt this method of hunting, but it seems to be working for them! In terms of teamwork, Black Tip Sharks are usually found in large groups, with a strong sense of hierarchy. This can be due to their relatively small size compared to other sharks, averaging 5 feet and weighing around 40 pounds.

Visit Our Website To Learn More About Black Tip Sharks!

Hopefully, by reading this, you’ve gained a better understanding of Black Tip Sharks. Our team of Sharksider has plenty more information on this shark species, as well as many others! If you’re a shark lover, or someone who has developed a new interest in these aquatic creatures, please browse our website for all of our great information!

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