Tiger shark

Presentation

The Tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is a large carnivorous shark recognizable by the dark vertical stripes that mark its back, especially visible in juveniles. It is among the largest predatory sharks in tropical and subtropical seas. Renowned for its extremely varied diet, it is sometimes nicknamed "trash of the seas". This solitary, nomadic species travels vast ocean distances during its life. It plays an important role in the regulation of coastal marine ecosystems.

The body is massive and fusiform, with a broad head and a short, rounded muzzle. The gray to brownish skin has dark vertical stripes that fade with age in adults. The jaws are armed with hook-shaped, serrated and asymmetrical teeth, capable of slicing through bones and shells. The caudal fin is heterocercal, with an elongated upper lobe adapted for powerful swimming.

Characteristics

Indicative values: they vary by subspecies, sex and region.

Habitat and distribution

The species frequents tropical and warm temperate waters, from shallow coastal areas to the open ocean. It is particularly fond of lagoons, coral reefs and river mouths rich in prey. It can also be observed near ports and coastal urban areas where organic waste is abundant. Its tolerance of varied habitats makes it a cosmopolitan species in warm seas.

Behaviour

This shark leads a generally solitary life, except in occasional groupings around an abundant food source. It is active mainly at night, often hunting near shore after sunset. Its movements can cover very long distances, including seasonal migrations. It shows great curiosity towards floating objects, which partly explains its varied diet.

Reproduction

The Tiger shark is ovoviviparous, with the eggs developing inside the female's body until hatching. A litter can number from ten to more than eighty young depending on the individual. Gestation lasts about a year. Juveniles are independent from birth and receive no parental care.

Peculiarities

The Tiger shark owes its name to the dark stripes on its body, reminiscent of the coat of the land tiger. Its extremely varied diet has earned it a particular reputation among scientists studying shark behavior. It is capable of detecting minute vibrations and electric fields using specialized sensory organs. It is one of the few sharks known to occasionally attack adult sea turtles using the power of its jaw.

Threats and conservation

The species is threatened by overfishing, particularly for its fins intended for international trade. It is also accidentally caught in industrial fishing nets. Degradation of coastal habitats and marine pollution pose additional threats. Its relatively slow reproduction rate limits its ability to compensate for these pressures.

References

Profile updated 27 August 2026 · Reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team.