description Tiger shark Overview
Dark vertical markings on young tiger sharks give this large predatory species its common name. The stripes often become less distinct as the animal matures. Found in tropical and warm temperate waters around the world, the tiger shark is generally solitary and frequently active at night. Its broad diet includes fish and squid, but also turtles and marine mammals, with seabirds among the other animals it may consume.
The species is traditionally placed among requiem sharks in the family Carcharhinidae. As an apex predator, it can occupy a high position in marine food webs without specializing in one narrow prey type. Its broad head and strongly serrated teeth distinguish it from more slender sharks that pursue fast fish offshore. For readers comparing shark feeding strategies, the tiger shark is especially relevant as a large generalist whose anatomy supports taking prey with very different body forms.
help Tiger shark FAQ
Why is the tiger shark named as such?
The tiger shark derives its name from the dark vertical stripes found along the sides of juveniles. These distinctive stripes often fade as the shark matures into an adult.
What type of predator is the tiger shark?
It is a solitary, mostly nocturnal apex predator. This large macropredatory requiem shark is known for having one of the widest and most varied diets of any shark species.
Where do tiger sharks typically live?
Tiger sharks are found in tropical and warm temperate waters around the world. They are highly adaptable and often frequent coastal regions, river mouths, and offshore reefs.
What family of sharks does the tiger shark belong to?
The tiger shark is a large macropredatory requiem shark. Requiem sharks, belonging to the family Carcharhinidae, make up one of the largest families of sharks globally and include many migratory, live-bearing species.
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