Nurse Shark
NameNurse Shark
Scientific NameGinglymostoma cirratum
Common NamesNurse Shark, Atlantic Nurse Shark
FamilyGinglymostomatidae
OriginWestern Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)10000
Max Size (Inches)168
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.0-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther large sharks (in extremely large exhibits), Large rays (in extremely large exhibits), Large, robust predatory fish (in extremely large exhibits)
Description
The Nurse Shark is a large, bottom-dwelling shark known for its generally docile nature towards humans when unprovoked, but it is a powerful nocturnal predator. These sharks are characterized by their flattened heads, small mouths, and distinctive barbels used to locate prey. Due to their immense size, they are only suitable for very large public aquariums or specialized private facilities.
