Blacktip Reef Shark

Common name for a species of shark, with the scientific terms Carcharhinus melanopterus and Carcharhinus elegans, among others. It is found abundantly in the tropical coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and is one of the more commonly seen shark species in coral reefs off Thailand's coast. It is easily identified by the black tip on its fins, which on the first dorsal fin also has a whitish border. Though not commercially fished for, Blacktip Reef Sharks do repeatedly end up in the nets of coastal fishing boats, that operate off Thailand's coast, and since the meat, as well as the fins (fig.) and liver oil can be used for human consumption, they do have certain commercial value (fig.). Since their habitat consists of waters close to the shore, these sharks often come into contact with humans, and although they are easily frightened away, they are known to occasionally attack and wound waders and swimmers, even unprovoked. 回