Tiger Shark

Galeocerdo cuvier

Order: Carchariniformes

Every bit as fearsome as their name suggests, tiger sharks are rightly revered for their aggressive nature and astonishing predatory abilities. Named for their distinctive striped pattern, tiger sharks are by far the biggest members of their immediate family. Commonly found in shallow tropical water, tiger sharks seem equally at home in muddy estuaries and temperate oceans, where they hunt almost anything that is edible and many things that aren’t; everything from plastic bottles to vehicle licence plates, rubber tyres, wine bottles and empty cans have been found in the stomachs of tiger sharks.

Their impressive serrated teeth are often used to tear chunks from much larger prey, including whale carcasses and other marine mammals, and they are famous for their ability to consume even hard-shelled creatures, such as turtles.

Tiger sharks are second only to white sharks in the number of reported attacks on humans. Their great size, curious nature and indiscriminate feeding habits make them dangerous opponents and they have been responsible for many fatal attacks.

Maximum size: Over 5 metres / 700kg

Distribution: Worldwide in temperate and tropical waters, except the Mediterranean. Often found in deep ocean in open water.

Diet: Small molluscs, crustaceans, small fish and squid.

Reproduction: Ovoviviparous. Females typically give birth to between 30 and 55 pups.

Photo: NHPA