The Ornate Wobbegong, Orectolobus ornatus, is a species of wobbegong shark found in the coastal waters of Australia. It is a relatively large shark, reaching a maximum size of 290.0 cm, and is known for its distinctive coloration and cryptic behavior.
Description & Characteristics
The Ornate Wobbegong is easily identified by its flattened body and wide, rounded head. It is distinguished by its unique coloration, featuring a mottled pattern of brown, grey, and white markings that resemble algae and coral, providing excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. This pattern helps it blend seamlessly with the seabed, making it difficult for prey to spot and for predators to detect. The mouth of the Orectolobus ornatus is positioned underneath the head, equipped with rows of small, sharp teeth. Like other wobbegongs, it has fleshy barbels around its mouth, which are sensory organs that aid in detecting prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Ornate Wobbegong is a bottom-dwelling shark that typically inhabits shallow, rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. It prefers areas with moderate to strong currents, often found at depths ranging from 0.0 to 100.0 meters. This species can be encountered in various marine zones, including the inner continental shelf, the outer continental shelf, and the upper slope. Its presence has been documented throughout the coastal waters of Australia, from Western Australia to New South Wales.
Taxonomy
The species Orectolobus ornatus belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Orectolobiformes, and Family: Orectolobidae. Elasmobranchii comprises the cartilaginous fishes, a group that includes sharks, rays, and skates. The Orectolobiformes order encompasses the wobbegong sharks, characterized by their flattened bodies and distinctive coloration. The Orectolobidae family further classifies these species into the various wobbegong species.
Feeding
The Ornate Wobbegong is a carnivorous shark that primarily feeds on a variety of bottom-dwelling organisms. Its diet includes crustaceans, cephalopods, and fish. It has been observed to consume clams, shrimps, and cuttlefish, suggesting its ability to prey on a range of marine invertebrates. Its ambush predator strategy involves lying camouflaged on the seabed, waiting for prey to come within reach. Once a suitable target is detected, the Orectolobus ornatus rapidly lunges, using its powerful jaws to capture and consume its prey.
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