Tiger Shark

Galeocerdo cuvier

The tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is a large coastal-oceanic shark found in warm seas worldwide. Adults are commonly around 3 to 4 metres long, with exceptionally large individuals reported above 5 metres.

Mass (typical / record)

510 kg

Top speed

—

Body length

3.8 m

Diet

Carnivore

Habitats

coastal waters, open ocean, coral reefs

IUCN: NT (Near Threatened)

In Hawaiian tradition, tiger sharks are considered aumakua, ancestral guardian spirits deserving respect rather than fear. Media coverage of rare attacks has made them one of the most feared sharks, though they are ecologically important reef-system regulators.