Uraha Kalhu Miyaru, Falhu Miyaru
Classification
Max Size
Carcharhiniformes
Distribution
Indo-Pacific.
Distinctive Characters
Snout short and rounded. Teeth in upper jaw serrated, with narrow angled points. Second dorsal fin high, its base less than twice its height. No ridge between dorsal fins.
Color
Pale yellow brown. Fins with black tips. A conspicuous pale band on flank.
Habitat & Biology
Occurs inshore on continental and insular shelves; prefers shallow water on and around coral reefs to depths of 30 m or less. Feeds on small fishes and cephalopods. Viviparous with yolksac placenta; number of young per litter 2 to 4, usually 4.
Remarks
Carcharhinus melanopterus is a shallow water species, and so is seen by snorkellers and beachwalkers more commonly than any other shark. It is also taken more frequently by gill nets set in lagoons than other shark species. In the Pacific there have been some cases of attacks on lower limb of people wading in shallows. One individual was taken by R.V. “Farumas” near K. Ihuru.
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