Negaprion
Negaprion is a genus of requiem sharks in the family Carcharhinidae. The genus includes two species: the lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris) and the blacknose shark (Negaprion acutidens). They are characterized by their stocky, streamlined bodies, short snouts, and bright yellow to brown coloration. Lemon sharks are found in coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, while blacknose sharks inhabit coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Both species are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
Characteristics
Sharks in the genus Negaprion are typically characterized by the following:
- A stocky, fusiform body shape.
- A short, blunt snout with a rounded tip.
- Large, forward-facing eyes.
- A prominent dorsal fin that is higher than it is long.
- Two distinct dorsal fins.
- A small, inconspicuous anal fin.
- A broad, flat tail with a well-developed lower lobe.
- A distinctive coloration ranging from yellow to brown.
The lemon shark is generally larger than the blacknose shark, with adults reaching lengths of up to 3.4 meters (11 feet). Blacknose sharks are typically smaller, growing to a maximum length of about 2.1 meters (7 feet).
Environment
Lemon sharks are found in shallow coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and the eastern coast of the United States. They are also found in brackish water estuaries and rivers. Blacknose sharks are found in coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific Ocean.
Both species are generally found in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms and abundant vegetation. Lemon sharks are known to inhabit estuaries and river systems, while blacknose sharks are more commonly found in coastal waters and reefs.
Diet
Negaprion sharks are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and even sea turtles. They use their sharp teeth to tear and crush their prey. Lemon sharks are known to feed on a wide range of prey, including bonefish, snapper, stingrays, and even seabirds. Blacknose sharks have a more restricted diet, mainly consisting of fish, crabs, and squid.
Reproduction
Lemon sharks are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. Female lemon sharks can produce litters of up to 14 pups. They have a gestation period of about 12 months. Blacknose sharks also give birth to live young, with litters typically ranging from 2 to 11 pups. They have a gestation period of around 10 months.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Negaprion sharks is considered vulnerable. Lemon sharks are listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List, while blacknose sharks are listed as Least Concern. Both species are facing threats from overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. The trade of lemon shark fins has also been a major concern for the species.
References
FishBase
IUCN Red List
Elasmo Research
Florida Museum of Natural History