EPAULETTE SHARK
Hemiscyllium ocellatum
The Epaulette Shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) is a small species of carpet shark native to the shallow coral reefs of Australia and Papua New Guinea. Known for its distinctive pattern of dark spots resembling epaulettes, it is an adept nocturnal hunter that uses its pectoral fins to "walk" along the ocean floor in search of prey. Despite its small size, this shark plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of its coral reef ecosystem.
OVERVIEW
IUCN Conservation Status: Not Evaluated
Class Chondrichthyes
Genus Hemiscyllium
Family Hemiscylliidae
Order Orectolobiformes
SIZE
Male Epaulette Sharks typically measure between 54-62cm, females between 55-64cm, with the largest recorded specimen reaching 107cm.
DIET
Epaulette Sharks are opportunistic feeders, preying on crustaceans and small fish in rockpools and reefs, while also consuming worms and other small marine organisms.
BEHAVIOUR
Epaulette Sharks are predominantly nocturnal, exhibiting heightened activity at dusk and during the night, often foraging during low tide. They display unique movement behaviours, including crawling, clamouring, and walking across land and tide pools, and they are said to be unafraid of human presence.
HABITAT
Epaulette Sharks inhabit shallow coral reefs, tide pools, and occasionally areas barely submerged, with depths ranging up to 50 meters. They are predominantly found in coral-rich environments, where they use their unique adaptations for nocturnal foraging and hunting.
BREEDING
Epaulette Sharks are oviparous, mating between July and December, with egg-laying from August to January. They have a gestation period of approximately 115-130 days.
