English Name: Silky Shark
Local Name: Oivaali Miyaru, Ainu Miyaru
Size: Max. 3.3 m
Family: CARCHARHINIDAE
Order: Carcharhiniformes
Distinctive Characters: A large, relatively slender shark. Snout moderately long and pointed. Origin of first dorsal fin behind the rear of pectorals. Second dorsal low with long posterior extension. Pectoral long and pointed. Ridge between dorsals.
Colour: Grey, pale below.
Habitat and Biology: Inhabits oceanic waters near and beyond continental slopes, but also found in coastal waters. Usually near the surface but also found at depths upto 500 m. Feeds mainly on fishes, squids and octopods. Viviparous with a yolk-sac placenta; 2 – 4 young per litter.
Distribution: Circumtropical.
Remarks: Carcharhinus falciformis is one of the commonest oceanic shark in Maldivian waters.