Coral Catshark
ExploreFish
Coral Catshark
atelomycterus marmoratus
The Coral Catshark is a small and friendly shark that loves to hide among the colorful corals! It has beautiful patterns on its skin that help it blend in with its surroundings.
Habitat: Coral reefs in warm, shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific.
Appearance
The Coral Catshark has a slender body with a flattened head, short barbels, and a distinct, intricate marbled pattern of dark brown spots and stripes over a light background. Its appearance allows it to blend seamlessly with coral reefs and rocky seafloors.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassElasmobranchiiOrderCarcharhiniformesFamilyScyliorhinidaeGenusAtelomycterus
Category
FishRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Coral Catsharks can survive short periods out of water during low tide, waiting for the ocean to return.
During mating, the male catshark gently bites the female to hold her in place.
It lays unusual egg cases, often called 'mermaid's purses,' that attach to underwater plants!
They use whisker-like growths called barbels near their mouths to 'taste' the seafloor for food.
Special abilities
Ability
Super Sense
Coral Catshark can detect weak electrical fields because of special pores that helps them find hidden prey.
Ability
Camouflage Cloak
Coral Catshark has a patterned skin that helps them blend perfectly into coral and rocky environments.
Ability
Flexi-Body
Coral Catshark can squeeze into tiny cracks and crevices because of its slender, agile body for hiding or hunting.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 40-70 cm
- Weight
- 1-2 kg
- Lifespan
- 10-20 years
- Swim Speed
- 2 km/h
- Maximum Depth
- 100 m
- Water Type
- Saltwater
Diet & Feeding
This shark hunts small critters and fish hiding among the coral, using its super senses to find them!
Primary Foods
- small fish
- shrimp
- crabs
- worms
- squid
Foraging Method
- Ambush
Ecological connections
eats
Giant Tiger Prawn
Penaeus monodon
A common meal for the catshark.
eats
Blue Swimmer Crab
Portunus pelagicus
Crabs are a favorite benthic food source.
eaten by
Grey Reef Shark
Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos
Larger sharks sometimes prey on juveniles.
shelters
Staghorn Coral
Acropora formosa
Provides hiding spots from predators and current.
Traits
Spotted
Marked with spots or patches of a different color.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Carnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of animal tissue.
Marine
Marine habitats encompass all saltwater environments of the Earth's oceans, supporting an immense diversity of aquatic life.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Also known as
Coral SharkMarble CatsharkMarmorated Catshark
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Coral Catshark?
40-70 cm
How much does Coral Catshark weigh?
1-2 kg
How long does Coral Catshark live?
10-20 years
What does Coral Catshark eat?
This shark hunts small critters and fish hiding among the coral, using its super senses to find them!
How fast can Coral Catshark swim?
2 km/h
Where is Coral Catshark usually found?
Coral reefs in warm, shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific.
How does Coral Catshark hunt?
Ambush
How deep can Coral Catshark go?
100 m
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