1
Cartilaginous fish that typically inhabits tropical and warm seas
Scientific Name: Galeocerdo cuvier
Common Name: Tiger Shark
Dimensions: Largest reported specimen measured 7.4 m and weighed 3,110 kg, originating from Vietnam, while most are less than 5 m in length
Medium: model
Registration Number: RPN.2018.0067
2
The tiger shark is mostly gray with dark gray bars on its side, especially when young. It possesses a robust, stout head and anterior body, gradually tapering towards the rear, featuring two low ridges on the sides of its narrow tail. Pits are present before its tail, along with a noticeable ridge between its two dorsal fins. The snout is short and rounded, and its mouth is large with rough teeth. Notably, there's a small slit behind its eye that distinguishes it from other sharks. While the first dorsal fin is not very large, the second dorsal and anal fins are similar in size. Its pectoral fins are relatively modest compared to its body size.
Habitat and Biology
The tiger shark is highly adaptable, found in diverse habitats from muddy shores to coral reefs, and even in deep ocean areas. It is mostly active at night and tends to stay in deeper waters during the day. With the most diverse diet among shark species, it includes fish, turtles, sea birds, dolphins, sea snakes, crabs, and jellyfish. Additionally, it scavenges for carrion and has a reputation for consuming a wide range of waste, including non-digestible materials like plastic and metal.
ECO System Qatar
Open Water: The temperatures of the Arabian Gulf waters exhibit significant variation. Hosting a diverse array of over 700 marine species, the Gulf is a habitat for notable creatures such as whale sharks, great hammerhead sharks, and kawakawa. Unfortunately, human activities pose a threat to Qatar's marine environments. Pollution and shoreline construction exert pressure on the Gulf's delicate ecosystems, placing some species at risk of extinction. Nevertheless, concerted efforts are underway to preserve and protect Qatar's invaluable marine habitats.
PUBLICATIONS AND RESEARCH
Freyhof, Jörg & Els, Johannes & Feulner, Gary & Hamidan, Nashat & Krupp, Friedhelm. (2020). Freshwater Fishes of the Arabian Peninsula.