The Nurse Shark, scientifically known as Ginglymostoma cirratum, is a large, sluggish shark inhabiting warm, tropical and subtropical waters. They are easily recognizable by their distinctive flattened bodies, large heads, and small mouths.
Description & Characteristics
The Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) is a large species, with adults typically reaching a maximum size of 430.0 cm. They possess a robust, flattened body with a broad, rounded head. Their eyes are small and located dorsally, and their mouths are small and positioned on the underside of their heads. Unlike many other shark species, Nurse Sharks possess a pair of barbels (fleshy filaments) near the corners of their mouths that aid in sensory perception.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) is a bottom-dwelling species, typically found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and reefs. They can inhabit depths ranging from 0.0 to 130.0 meters. The Nurse Shark is a widespread species, with populations occurring in the western Atlantic Ocean, the eastern Pacific Ocean, and the Indian Ocean.
Taxonomy
The species Ginglymostoma cirratum belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes. It is further classified within the Order: Orectolobiformes, a group of sharks known for their flattened bodies and bottom-dwelling habits. The Nurse Shark is also a member of the Family: Ginglymostomatidae, a family characterized by their unique combination of features, including barbels and a distinctive dorsal fin arrangement.
Feeding
The Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) is a nocturnal predator, primarily feeding on crustaceans and small fishes. Their diet consists mainly of crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and other invertebrates. They also consume small fish, often using their barbels to locate prey in the darkness.
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