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SAND TIGER SHARK

SAND TIGER SHARK

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Scientific Name: Carcharias taurus Size : 1.8 - 3.6 m Average Life Expectancy : 25 years

The sand tiger shark is, with its big size and sharp teeth that are still visible even when it has its mouth closed, is one of the most interesting members of the Istanbul Akvaryum family. This species is the cousin of the great white shark, lives in all warm waters of the oceans, except for the East Pacific, and is often seen on the sand surface near the shore. This is also where the name sand tiger shark comes from.

The sand tiger shark has a sharp pointed head and a bulky body. Despite that it is a very good swimmer. Its size can reach up to 3.5 meters and its weight up to 158 kilograms. It is a very competent hunter and it usually hunts during the night. This species generally feeds on small fish but it also hunts crustaceans and squids.

The average life expectancy of this species is 25 years.

In which tank can it be seen?

You can see the sand tiger shark in the Mid-Atlantic, Western Atlantic, Panama and Pacific Areas of Istanbul Akvaryum.

Did you know?

  • The sand tiger shark is known as the only shark species that comes to the surface and swallows air. By doing so it stores air in its body, which enables it to stay still underwater without sinking.
  • The pregnancy of the sand tiger shark lasts for 9 months.
  • The unborn babies may eat each other in the womb of the mother. This is a cannibalism specific to this species.
  • Even though the name might suggest it, this species is not related to the tiger shark.
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