Zebra bullhead shark – Heterodontus zebra

Zebra bullhead shark, Zebra Bullhead Shark - Heterodontus zebra, Heterodontus zebra

The Zebra Bullhead Shark, scientifically known as Heterodontus zebra, is a fascinating species of shark that inhabits the coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region.

Description & Characteristics

This shark boasts a distinctive appearance, characterized by its robust, somewhat flattened body and a large, blunt head. The Zebra Bullhead Shark, Heterodontus zebra, is easily recognizable for its striking coloration. Its grey to brown body is adorned with bold, white stripes, resembling the stripes of a zebra, hence its common name. These stripes fade with age, becoming less prominent in older individuals. It can reach a maximum size of 125.0 cm, making it a moderately sized shark.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Zebra Bullhead Shark, Heterodontus zebra, is found in shallow coastal waters, typically residing on rocky reefs and seagrass beds. They have been observed at depths ranging from 0.0 to 200.0 meters, demonstrating their adaptability to varying depths. Their distribution encompasses a wide area, including the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Philippines and New Caledonia. This broad range highlights their prevalence in these marine zones, contributing significantly to the biodiversity of these ecosystems.

Taxonomy

The Zebra Bullhead Shark, Heterodontus zebra, is scientifically classified within the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Heterodontiformes, and Family: Heterodontidae. This taxonomic placement reflects its unique evolutionary lineage and characteristics that distinguish it from other shark species.

Feeding

The Zebra Bullhead Shark, Heterodontus zebra, is a carnivorous predator, primarily feeding on benthic invertebrates. Their diet includes a variety of organisms, such as clam meat, crabs, rock shrimps, schrimps, sea urchins, sepia, shrimps, and starfishs. This diverse diet demonstrates their versatility and ability to exploit various food sources within their habitat.

Associated Species

Image References

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