Carpet sharks belong to the Order Orectolobiformes, a diverse group of marine life ranging from the world’s largest fish to small, camouflaged bottom-dwellers. The perceived threat level often differs significantly from the reality of human encounters. This article explores the characteristics of these sharks and details the few species responsible for nearly all recorded incidents to provide a clear answer regarding their danger to people.
Defining Carpet Sharks
Carpet sharks are classified under the order Orectolobiformes, encompassing over 40 distinct species. They are named for their ornate, mottled skin patterns, which help them blend seamlessly into their environment, often resembling a patterned rug. These sharks are primarily found in the warm, shallow waters of tropical and temperate regions, especially in the Indo-Pacific and Australian coastal areas.
Physically, carpet sharks have a generally flattened body shape, two spineless dorsal fins, and a small mouth. Many species possess barbels near the nostrils, which they use to detect prey on the seabed. Their diet consists of small benthic organisms like crustaceans, mollusks, and fish, which they typically ambush.
Assessing the Threat Level
For the vast majority of species within the carpet shark order, the threat level to humans is extremely low. Most are small, sluggish bottom-dwellers that rely on camouflage and prefer to remain stationary. They lack the physiology for high-speed pursuit and are not equipped to prey on large mammals.
The largest member of this order, the Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus), is a harmless filter feeder that consumes plankton, despite growing over 40 feet long. Smaller species, such as Bamboo and Epaulette Sharks, are generally docile and have small mouths. They typically retreat or remain still when approached, making unprovoked incidents exceedingly rare.
Species That Pose a Risk
Documented human-shark incidents involving Orectolobiformes are overwhelmingly attributed to two groups: Wobbegongs and Nurse Sharks.
Wobbegongs
Wobbegongs (Orectolobus species) are highly camouflaged ambush predators. Bites usually occur when a person inadvertently steps on or makes contact with a concealed shark. Wobbegongs possess numerous small, sharp teeth and are known for their powerful bite and tendency to hold on tenaciously, often requiring medical intervention to remove them.
Nurse Sharks
Nurse Sharks (Ginglymostoma species) are bottom-dwellers known for their docility, but they account for a substantial number of provoked bites globally. These incidents nearly always involve a person harassing, grabbing, or cornering a shark, causing a defensive reaction. While their strong jaws can inflict deep puncture wounds and lacerations, no recorded fatalities have resulted from either Wobbegong or Nurse Shark encounters.
Preventing Unwanted Encounters
Preventing incidents with carpet sharks involves habitat awareness and respecting their space. Since Wobbegongs rely on camouflage and lie motionless on the seafloor, accidental contact is the primary cause of bites. In areas where these sharks live, waders should shuffle their feet to warn any hidden sharks of their presence, allowing them time to move away.
For divers and snorkelers, the rule is to observe all marine life from a distance and never attempt to touch or feed any shark. Nurse Sharks react defensively if they feel threatened, cornered, or if their tail is grabbed. Avoiding these sharks when they are resting under ledges or in caves is advisable, as blocking their escape route can trigger a stress response.