- Snout bluntly rounded, much shorter than mouth width
- Serrated teeth with deep notch on outer margins
- Spiracles present, small
- Adults have tiger-like vertical bars that fade with age
- Juveniles have bluish or green-gray to black backs with dark blotches
- Low interdorsal ridge present
Similar Species: Teeth, short snout and markings distinguish this species from all other Carcharhinids
Habitat & Range
Common throughout Florida and occurs worldwide in tropical and warm-temperate waters. Found in a variety of habitats including river mouths, shallow bays, and open ocean.
Life History
Gives birth to live young after approximately 12 months of gestation. Broods contain 10-70 pups. Size at birth 27-34 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
Maximum size about 15-18 feet in length and a weight of 2,000 pounds. Matures at approximately 7-10 years of age (about 10 feet) and is estimated to live 30+ years.
