The copper shark, or Carcharhinus brachyurus, is a large, robust shark known for its coppery-brown coloration. It inhabits temperate and subtropical waters, often found near continental shelves and coastal areas. This species is migratory and social, sometimes forming large groups. It primarily feeds on bony fish and cephalopods.

Carcharhinus brachyurus, commonly known as the copper shark or bronze whaler, has a wide but fragmented distribution. It is found in temperate and subtropical waters across multiple continents, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Specifically, its range includes the coasts of southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, as well as parts of the Mediterranean Sea.

The copper shark typically inhabits coastal and offshore waters, preferring environments with temperatures ranging from 12 to 24°C (54 to 75°F). It is often found in regions with sandy or muddy bottoms, and occasionally in rocky or coral reef areas. This species is known to dwell at depths ranging from the surface to 100 meters (330 feet), though it can venture deeper.

Carcharhinus brachyurus is a predatory species that plays a crucial role in its marine ecosystem as a top predator. It primarily feeds on bony fish, such as sardines and herring, as well as cephalopods and crustaceans. The copper shark is known for its migratory behavior, often moving to different regions based on seasonal changes in water temperature and prey availability. It exhibits some degree of regional adaptation, particularly in response to local prey species and environmental conditions.