The tiger shark is one of the ocean’s most recognizable predators, distinguished by dark, vertical stripes that fade as the shark matures. Found in tropical and temperate waters around the globe, this species is known for its large size and a diet that has earned it a reputation for consuming almost anything.
Typical Tiger Shark Dimensions
Mature tiger sharks exhibit a significant size range, with females consistently growing larger than males. An adult female often measures over 3.7 meters (12 feet 2 inches), while mature males are typically smaller. On average, these sharks weigh between 300 and 900 kilograms (about 700 to 2,000 pounds).
The standard dimensions for this species place it as the fourth largest shark in the world. While most will fall within the common length and weight parameters, exceptionally large females have been reliably measured at over 5 meters (16 feet 5 inches). These baseline figures provide a clear context for appreciating the size of the largest specimens ever documented.
Documented Largest Specimens
The record for the largest tiger shark is a subject of some debate. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) recognizes a tie for the all-tackle world record. One of these records belongs to Kevin J. Clapson, who caught a tiger shark weighing 810 kg (1,785 pounds and 11 ounces) off the coast of Ulladulla, Australia, in March 2004.
Another famous catch occurred in June 1964, when Walter Maxwell landed a tiger shark weighing 1,780 pounds near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Maxwell’s catch is still recognized by the IGFA as a tie with Clapson’s. Beyond these official fishing records, there are reports of even larger individuals. One pregnant female caught off Australia was reported to measure 5.5 meters (18 feet 1 inch) and weigh 1,524 kg (3,360 pounds).
Unverified accounts and scientific estimates suggest even greater possibilities. Researchers have encountered sharks believed to be between 16 and 18 feet long in regions like French Polynesia, though these were not captured or officially weighed. There is also an unconfirmed report of a 7.4-meter (24-foot 3-inch) tiger shark, but this claim lacks the scientific verification needed for broad acceptance.
Factors Contributing to Exceptional Size
Several biological and environmental factors contribute to some tiger sharks reaching extraordinary sizes. Longevity is a primary contributor; as sharks age, they continue to grow, so older individuals are often the largest.
The availability of food is another determinant of a shark’s ultimate size. In habitats with abundant prey, tiger sharks can achieve higher growth rates. Their famously indiscriminate diet allows them to take advantage of a wide variety of food sources. Genetics also plays a role, with some individuals simply being predisposed to grow larger and faster than others.