How big is the Leopard shark?

Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata) reaches 100–210 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Leopard shark?

Leopard shark is found between 0–150 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Leopard shark?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata)

Key facts

Scientific name: Triakis semifasciata
Common name: Leopard shark
Category: Fish
Family: Triakidae
Genus: Triakis
Size: 100–210 cm
Depth: 0–150 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: sandy-bottom, rocky-reef
Behaviours: pelagic, schooling
Ocean zones: Eastern Pacific

Description

Triakis semifasciata reaches 2.1 m. Shark (Triakidae) East Pacific temperate to subtropical from Oregon to Baja California with fusiform body bronze-gray to brown-silvery with distinctive black markings: round spots and alternating dorsal saddles in leopard pattern (hence name). Lives from 0 to 150 m in coastal zones, bays, estuaries and sandy bottoms. Feeds on benthic fish, crustaceans and mollusks. Harmless. Forms spectacular summer aggregations (La Jolla Shores). Iconic dive and snorkel photo subject of California, easy and accessible encounter.

Photo of Leopard shark

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Leopard shark?: Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata) reaches 100–210 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Leopard shark?: Leopard shark is found between 0–150 m deep.
Is the Leopard shark dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Leopard shark?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Leopard shark?: Found in: Eastern Pacific.

Other species in the family Triakidae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 279060)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2418369)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia