Tiger shark

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Tiger shark

The Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is a species of shark in the family Carcharhinidae, easily recognizable by its dark, vertical stripes on a lighter background, reminiscent of a tiger's pattern. This large, predatory fish is found in many tropical and temperate waters, especially around central Pacific islands. It is second only to the Great White Shark in the number of reported attacks on humans, but it remains a much-studied and respected species within marine biology and shark conservation efforts.

Description

The Tiger Shark is notable for its robust size, with mature individuals commonly reaching lengths of 3.25 to 4.25 meters (10 to 14 feet) and weighing over 635 kilograms (1,400 pounds). Some specimens have been recorded at lengths of over 5 meters (16 feet). Their distinctive coloration serves as camouflage in the water, helping them to approach prey unnoticed.

Habitat and Distribution

Tiger Sharks are highly adaptable sharks found in a wide range of marine environments but prefer coastal, warm waters. They are often seen in coral reefs, river mouths, and open oceans. Their distribution spans across the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean Sea, and parts of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

Diet

Known for their eclectic diet, Tiger Sharks are true opportunistic feeders. Their menu includes a variety of prey such as fish, seals, birds, smaller sharks, and even inanimate objects like license plates, which have been found in their stomachs. This indiscriminate feeding behavior has earned them the nickname "garbage cans of the sea."

Reproduction

Tiger Sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning their eggs hatch inside the female's body, and the young are born live. A litter can range from 10 to 80 pups, with the young sharks fending for themselves immediately after birth. They have a slow growth rate and long gestation period, contributing to their vulnerability to overfishing.

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the Tiger Shark as Near Threatened. Their populations are declining due to fishing pressures and accidental catches in nets meant for other species. Conservation efforts are focused on implementing fishing restrictions, protecting habitats, and raising public awareness about the ecological role of sharks.

Human Interactions

While Tiger Sharks are responsible for a number of unprovoked attacks on humans, they do not typically seek out human interaction. Most attacks can be attributed to the shark mistaking humans for natural prey. Efforts to educate the public on shark behavior and safety practices while swimming in shark-inhabited waters are ongoing.

See Also

• Shark conservation
• Great White Shark
• Carcharhinidae

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