The size of the leopard shark varies from 1.2 to 1.5 meters in length. It is a species of marten shark. The body is long and graceful with a short, rounded muzzle. Prefers to live in silty or sandy areas with a flat bottom, as well as near algae, rocky reefs or open coastal areas. Harmless and non-aggressive to people, so a photo of a leopard shark can be taken without fear of being bitten.
Pearls of the shark world
There are several potential threats that we need to address in order for the leopard shark population to remain resilient. The biggest problem is recreational fishing. These are popular sharks to catch due to their close proximity to shore, unique coloration, and delicious meat. More leopard sharks are hunted in California than anywhere else, and in 1992 the California Department of Fish and Wildlife imposed catch limits that have since allowed populationsrecover.
Surprisingly, small leopard sharks are also targeted by another unique fishery, the aquarium trade. They can fit in large aquariums, and are becoming popular pets simply because they easily survive in the aquarium environment (easier than other species). They are unique, beautiful and very easy to catch.
Habitats
If you live on the west coast of North America - somewhere between Washington DC and Mexico - there's a good chance that dozens or hundreds of leopard sharks are swimming around right now. Leopard sharks prefer shallower waters than their open ocean brethren. They love to travel through the kelp forests, even coming and going with the tide looking for tasty morsels. Small leopard sharks can be found in waters as little as 30 cm deep, so don't be surprised if you encounter them while walking along the coast.
Leopard sharks often form flocks with their own species and even with other sharks of the same size. They generally remain in place in the region in which they were born, although occasionally they swim up to several hundred miles. Overall, staying in one place makes it easier for biologists to study and track these sharks.
Key Features
One of the distinguishing features of this species is the distinct stripes located on the dorsal surface. Additional dark spots are found along the sides. In adults, the pectoral finshave a wide triangular shape. The anterior margin of the first dorsal fin appears behind the posterior margin of the pectoral fins. The tail fin is elongated. He is generally devoid of a lower share.
This species is an active, strong, fast-swimming shark, often performing undulating movements. They are known to form large schools, sometimes teaming with gray or brown mustel sharks (Mustelus californicus and M. henlei) and spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias). The shark's diet consists of shellfish, shrimp, crabs, octopuses, and fish. Large sharks such as the great white prey on leopards.
Reproduction and offspring
Sharks tend to breed slowly. Leopard sharks are no exception. It takes 10 to 15 years for a female to reach sexual maturity. They spend up to half of their lives just preparing to breed. However, after they have from 7 to 36 cubs per year. Sharks have been known to spend time in warm waters on purpose, which helps speed up the development of babies in the womb.
Female leopard sharks give birth to fully formed babies in shallow waters known as nurseries, safe from predators. Leaving the newborns here, they head back to breed and breed the next generation.
Interesting facts
Leopard sharks are one of the cutest and most beautiful representatives of predatory fish.
Here are some fun facts about this species:
- Sometimes the tiger leopard shark is calledGaleocerdo cuvier is a member of the gray shark family. However, this is a completely different shark and should not be confused.
- This kind of shark is viviparous. The female's eggs develop and hatch inside her. Newborns are about 8 inches (20 centimeters) long.
- Baby sharks grow very slowly and reach maturity only after ten years.
- Leopard sharks are more active at night than during the day. Sometimes they can be seen lying motionless on the bottom.
- The maximum lifespan of this species is estimated at 30 years. In captivity, they live up to 20 years.
Scientists say hundreds of leopard sharks have been found dead in San Francisco Bay and dozens off Foster City. This mass death may have been caused by meningitis due to a fungal bloom in stagnant water.
