Zebra sharks are large, nocturnal sharks living in tropical coral reefs' shallows. Despite their name, zebra sharks are all sea and no savanna. The shark gets its name from the black and white strips they’re born with, which turn into dots as they age.
The zebra shark is a docile forager, meaning humans aren’t on the menu! Read on to discover more about these beautiful striped and spotted creatures.
Size of Zebra Sharks
The size of a zebra shark varies depending on its age and gender. Freshly hatched zebra sharks can range from 8 - 14 inches (20 - 36 cm). Mature females range from around 5.5 - 5.75ft (169 - 171 cm), while males can vary a bit more, from 4.7 - 6ft (147 - 183 cm).
The biggest zebra shark ever recorded was nearly 12 feet long! Although, on average, you’re more likely to see sharks of this species come in at 6ft or under. They’re also reported to weigh up to 44 pounds (20kg).
Where Do Zebra Sharks Live?
The zebra sharks’ habitat is shallow coral reefs in tropical waters, and their food source is typically hidden in small crevices and caves around these areas. They can be found in the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea.
What Do Zebra Sharks Eat?
Zebra sharks mainly eat crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Their bodies are built for this diet. They have barbels (the whiskers on their snouts) to help them find their prey and a super flexible body that can wriggle into the tight spaces their food often lives in. They also have strong gill muscles, making it even easier for them to suck prey out of its hiding spot!
Are Zebra Sharks Dangerous?
No, not to humans anyway! Zebra sharks aren’t likely to attack humans. Unlike some other shark species, they’re usually non-aggressive and slow-moving. That said, like many animals, they could bite if provoked.
How Long Do Zebra Sharks Live?
Zebra sharks are believed to have a lifespan of 25-30 years in the wild, and their lifespan in captivity is reported to be similar.
Do Zebra Sharks Lay Eggs?
Yes, they do! Zebra sharks lay browny-black eggs. These eggs are covered in fibers, which keep them stable on the seafloor.
When mating, a male zebra shark will use its claspers to transfer its sperm to the female. Females can lay 1 - 4 eggs at a time. Once laid, the pups will stay developing in their eggs for around 6.5 months.
Once hatched, the pups are ready to swim and hunt fresh from the egg!
Are Zebra Sharks Endangered?
Yes, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists zebra sharks as an endangered species. This is largely due to fishing practices. Zebra sharks are heavily fished and eaten. Their fins are also used in shark fin soup and traditional Asian medicines.
Efforts are being made to protect this species. At SEA LIFE, we work with ReShark on their StAR Project, a breeding program focused on re-wilding the zebra shark species. StAR is the world's first shark species recovery project. You can find out more about our involvement here.
We have three zebra sharks at SEA LIFE Orlando: Joy, Nebula, and Luna! Come and meet all three in our 360⁰ Ocean Tunnel Experience.
