How big is the Zebra shark?

Zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) reaches 200–350 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Zebra shark?

Zebra shark is found between 1–62 m deep.

Where can you find the Zebra shark?

Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum)

Key facts

Scientific name: Stegostoma tigrinum
Common name: Zebra shark
Category: Fish
Family: Stegostomatidae
Genus: Stegostoma
Size: 200–350 cm
Depth: 1–62 m
IUCN status: Endangered (EN)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: reef, sand
Behaviours: nocturnal, solitary
Ocean zones: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Stegostoma tigrinum (formerly S. fasciatum) reaches 3.5 m. Cream-yellow body densely spotted with dark brown to black blotches (hence tigrinum), very long tail nearly half the total length. Juveniles black with fine white bands (hence the English name zebra). Very docile, accessible to divers. Often rests on the bottom facing the current. IUCN Endangered from overfishing. Famous sightings in the Maldives.

Photo of Zebra shark

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Zebra shark?: Zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) reaches 200–350 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Zebra shark?: Zebra shark is found between 1–62 m deep.
Is the Zebra shark dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Zebra shark?: IUCN status: Endangered (EN).
Where can you find the Zebra shark?: Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Similar species

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 313100)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 8493577)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia