Grey Reef Shark
The Grey Reef Shark, with its rounded snout and dark-edged tail, epitomizes elegance and power. An apex predator of coral reefs, it ensures ecological balance in warm, shallow Pacific and Indian Ocean waters. Its inquisitive nature and territorial behavior add to its captivating allure.
Endangered
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
The Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos, commonly known as the Grey Reef Shark, is a sleek, medium-sized shark found in warm, shallow waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Known for its inquisitive nature and territorial behavior, it often patrols coral reefs. Distinguished by its rounded snout and dark-edged tail, this apex predator plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
Distribution Range of the Grey Reef Shark
Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos, commonly known as the grey reef shark, is native to the Indo-Pacific region. Its geographical distribution includes the Red Sea and East Africa, extending eastward to the Hawaiian Islands, north to Japan, and south to Australia. It is commonly found in the waters surrounding islands and coral reefs throughout this range.
Grey Reef Shark's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The grey reef shark typically inhabits warm, shallow waters around coral reefs. It is commonly found at depths ranging from the surface to about 280 meters, although it is most frequently seen in waters less than 60 meters deep. The species prefers clear, tropical waters with temperatures typically ranging between 24°C to 27°C.
Ecological Niche
As a top predator in its ecosystem, the grey reef shark plays a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reef communities. It preys on a variety of fish and invertebrates, helping to regulate prey populations. The species is known for its territorial behavior and is often observed patrolling specific areas of the reef, contributing to the ecological balance by controlling the abundance of mid-level predators.
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