Sharks

Sharks
There is over 370 species of sharks and most of those are less than 2 meters long. Some people are fascinated by these beautiful creatures, whilst others believe that they are primitive and ghastly. Diving with these creatures is a pure delight, although caution should always be had when diving with the Great White, Tiger and Bull Sharks.

Whale Shark (Rhincodon Typus)
RHINCODONTIDAE FAMILY
The largest fish in the world, up to 12 meters long, blue with white spots and its body is also covered in vertical stripes. Feeds exclusively on plankton. Opportunities to swim with whale sharks in WA, Australia.

Great White Shark (Carcharodon Carcharias)
LAMNIDAE FAMILY
Robust body, wide at the front, snout is pointed and short. The mouth is large and armed with triangular teeth. Upper body is grey with a white belly. It feeds on large fish, seals and the occasional surfboard. Can reach over 7 meters.

Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo Cuvieri)
CARCHARHINIDAE FAMILY
Large shark with a short rounded snout. It is characterized by its grayish brown lateral stripes. The caudal fin has an upper lobe, which narrows towards the top. Can grow up to a length of 5.5 meters

Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas)
CARCHARHINIDAE FAMILY
Compact body, short rounded snout, the second dorsal fin and anal fin are alike and opposite. Lives near the coast and will venture into shallow water. Feeds on fish, rays and small sharks. Can grow up to a length of 3.5 meters

White Tip Oceanic Shark (Carcharhinus Longimanus)
CARCHARHINIDAE FAMILY
Tapered body, rounded white tipped fins. Pectoral fins are large for its body size. Short rounded snout. It is grey to blackish with a lighter belly. Feeds on fish and squid, can grow up to a length of 2.7 meters

Carpet Shark (Orectolobus Ornatus)
ORECTOLOBIDAE FAMILY
Flattened body, spends majority of its life on the seabed. Characterized by its variegated spots and patches. This shark is nocturnal and feeds on fish and invertebrates. It lives close to coral regions on the seabed. Can grow up to 2.8 meters long.