The blacktip reef shark, Carcharhinus melanopterus, is a common shark species found in tropical waters. This medium-sized shark typically grows to about 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) in length, though some individuals may reach up to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). It is easily identified by the distinct black tips on its fins, particularly the first dorsal and caudal fins, which often stand out against its light brown or grayish-blue body.
Preferred Environments
Blacktip reef sharks predominantly inhabit shallow, inshore waters, favoring clear, warm tropical environments. They are commonly observed over coral reefs, within lagoons, and across sandy flats. While they generally prefer depths of only a few meters, they have been recorded at depths reaching up to 75 meters (246 feet). This species also ventures into brackish estuaries, mangrove swamps, and even freshwater environments. Younger sharks show a strong preference for very shallow sandy flats or mangrove systems as they mature.
Geographic Range
The blacktip reef shark’s global distribution spans the tropical and subtropical Indo-Pacific region. Their range extends from the Red Sea and East Africa, across the Indian Ocean to the Indian Subcontinent, including Sri Lanka and the Maldives. They are also prevalent throughout Southeast Asia, encompassing waters around Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Further east, their presence reaches into the Pacific Ocean, as far as northern Australia, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, and the Hawaiian Islands. Blacktip reef sharks have also been reported in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, likely entering via the Suez Canal.
Life within Their Habitat
Blacktip reef sharks choose these habitats for abundant food sources and protective environments. They are active predators, primarily feeding on small bony fish such as mullet, groupers, and surgeonfish, alongside cephalopods like squid and octopus, and various crustaceans including shrimp. These sharks are often daytime hunters and have been observed working in small groups to herd schools of fish towards the shoreline. While generally solitary, they can form aggregations, especially during feeding events.
The shallow, complex structures of coral reefs and lagoons provide protection from larger predators. These areas also serve as important nursery grounds where pregnant females give birth to live young, typically two to five pups. Newborn and juvenile sharks utilize these nearshore, shallow water nurseries for shelter and to grow, avoiding larger predators. Blacktip reef sharks exhibit strong site fidelity, remaining within relatively small home ranges for extended periods, sometimes several years. Their daily activity space is typically around 10 square kilometers, with a significant portion of their time spent within an even smaller core area.