The Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis) is a robust, large shark commonly found in tropical waters around islands. It exhibits a grayish-brown top and white underside, with a characteristic ridge running between its dorsal fins. Known for its curious behavior, it often approaches divers closely.

Carcharhinus galapagensis, commonly known as the Galapagos shark, is primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. It is most notably associated with oceanic islands, including the Galapagos Islands, which is where it gets its name. Other regions include the Hawaiian Islands, the Caribbean, and the waters surrounding several Indian Ocean islands.

The Galapagos shark typically inhabits warm, tropical ocean waters with a preference for coral reefs, rocky reefs, and areas around island slopes. These sharks are often found in water depths ranging from the surface to about 180 meters, although they can occasionally venture deeper. The water temperature in these regions generally ranges from 20°C to 28°C.

As a top predator in its environment, the Galapagos shark plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. It primarily feeds on bony fish, cephalopods, and occasionally other shark species. This shark is known for its strong territorial behavior, particularly around island habitats, and can be aggressive towards perceived intruders, including humans and other large marine animals.