The beautiful Leopard Shark is named for Her bold color patterns. Unlike many other Sharks, Leopard Shark has a distinct blunt teardrop shape that highlights Her spots. Leopard Shark's spots help Her to blend into Her environment, thereby effectively camouflaging Her.
Timid around swimmers, Leopard Shark is considered harmless. This slow moving Shark prefers sandy bottoms and coral reefs. The docile Leopard Shark seems content to lay still pumping water over Her gills. However, care should be used since Leopard Shark has sharp teeth.
To avoid being caught, Leopard Shark hides in the Coral. In return for hiding in the Coral, the Shark, when She dies, forms more Coral for the next generation. As her body decays among the Coral, She provides more nutrients to help Coral grow. Leopard Shark teaches not only how to hide from danger but friendship also.
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Conservation Note: Leopard Sharks are endangered.
Photo of Leopard Shark courtesy of DIVE PLANULA (Australia)
Va. Carper
May 5, 2008