The Leopard Shark (stegostoma fasciatum) – Fiji
Can a shark change its stripes? Definitely! Meet the Leopard Shark! (not to be confused with our local celebrities which are also called leopard sharks from the Triakis semifasciata family) But they are also known as Zebra Sharks! Juveniles are dark brown to purplish or black, with white or pale yellow bars and blotches; which is why they have an alternative name of ‘Zebra Sharks’. Their bold striped coloration will change and the banding will fade and look more spotted on a light background as it ages and grows. This species of carpet shark reach maturity around 4 years old and about 5-6 feet long. This bottom dweller can be found in the shallows to depths over 200 feet and in the temperate waters of Tropical Indo-Pacific. The Leopard shark is also nocturnal… sorry buddy, didn’t mean to interrupt your nap. 😀
Leave a Reply