Triakis semifasciata

Distinguishing Characteristics:

  • Conspicuous dark saddle bars inter-spaced with dark spots
  • The first dorsal fin starting considerably ahead of the pelvic fins
  • Elongated caudal fin with a pronounced notch toward the end
  • Color from grayish-brown with darker markings to silvery gray with almost black markings above; underside paler with no markings

Habitat: Cool to warm-temperate temperatures, usually swimming near the bottom at 65 feet or fewer; common in inshore waters  from spring to midsummer

Size: To about 6 feet

Note: Gregarious creatures, leopard sharks often swims in large schools.


Watch these beautifully modeled bottom-feeding sharks as they swim in their tank at the San Diego Zoo. (Source: San Diego Zoo)