Epaulette Shark

Theme area: Global Meltdown

Scientific name: Hemiscyllium ocellatum

Class:

, Fish

, Vertebrates

Continent: Oceania

Habitat: Coastal waters, coral reefs

Diet: Carnivorous

Weight: 1-2 kg

Size: 80 - 90 cm

The Epaulette shark is certainly an interesting animal. It does swim but what makes it unusual is its ability to ‘walk’ which is accomplished by its pectoral and pelvic fins. Its slender body enables it to easily navigate in and around the intricacies of coral reefs where it feeds primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.

Conservation status

Extinct

Extinct in the wild

Critically endangered

Endangered

Vulnerable

Near threatened

Least concern

Insufficient data

Not evaluated