The Zebra Shark, scientifically known as Stegostoma tigrinum, is a distinctive and fascinating species of shark. With its unique appearance and intriguing behaviors, the Zebra Shark has captivated both scientists and the general public.
Description & Characteristics
The Stegostoma tigrinum is easily recognized by its striking coloration. Its body is adorned with a pattern of dark brown or black stripes resembling the stripes of a zebra, hence its common name. These stripes are particularly prominent during its juvenile stage. As the shark matures, the stripes gradually fade, giving way to a more uniform gray or brown hue. It is a relatively large species, with individuals reaching a maximum size of 354.0 cm. The Zebra Shark possesses a flattened, broad head, which is characteristic of its family, the Stegostomatidae. Its mouth is situated on the underside of its head, and it has a blunt snout. Its dorsal fins are small and positioned far back on its body, with the first dorsal fin positioned closer to the pelvic fins than the pectoral fins.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Stegostoma tigrinum is a demersal shark, meaning it prefers to inhabit the bottom of the ocean floor. Its depth range extends from 0.0 to 90.0 meters, where it finds suitable habitat. It is commonly found in the waters of the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the east coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean, including the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific Ocean. This distribution encompasses various marine zones, highlighting the Zebra Shark’s adaptability to different environments.
Taxonomy
The Stegostoma tigrinum belongs to a group of sharks known as the Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes, including sharks, rays, and skates. Within this class, it is further classified within the Order Orectolobiformes, commonly known as wobbegongs. This order comprises a diverse group of sharks with distinctive features, including a flattened body and a wide mouth. Finally, the Zebra Shark belongs to the Family Stegostomatidae, a small family containing only two species: the Stegostoma tigrinum and the Stegostoma fasciatum.
Feeding
The Stegostoma tigrinum is a nocturnal predator that feeds primarily on benthic invertebrates, which are animals that live on the ocean floor. Its diet consists of a variety of crustaceans, including crabs, shrimps, and clams, as well as cephalopods, such as squid and cuttlefish. It employs a unique hunting strategy, using its flattened body to blend seamlessly with the seabed and ambush its prey. The Zebra Shark’s powerful jaws are equipped with rows of small, sharp teeth designed for crushing and grinding its invertebrate prey.
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