The Epaulette Shark is a fairly small bottom-dwelling shark. It has a series of small spots on a yellowish-tan body and is recognized by the large spot directly above each pectoral fin.

A tank of 180 gallons or larger should be adequate. It requires sand as the substrate in the aquarium. The Epaulette's abdomen is easily scratched by a coarser substrate which could cause an infection. It should never be exposed to copper-based medications. The Epaulette Shark will eat invertebrates in the aquarium, and since it is primarily active at night, will prey upon any small, sleeping fish.

When first introduced to the aquarium, it may not feed. The best way to encourage feeding is by offering it small pieces of cleaned squid. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops, or pieces of marine fish.

The Epaulette Shark should only be kept by expert aquarists.

FIsh Facts

Name: Epaulette Shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum)

Family: Orectolobidae

Range: Western South Pacific, Australia, New Guinea

Size: Up to 3.5 feet

Diet: Carnivore

Tank Set-up: Marine: Sand, plants

Reef Compatible: No

Tank Conditions: 72-78°F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4

Minimum Tank Capacity: 180 gallon

Light: Low

Temperament: Aggressive

Swimming Level: Bottom

Care Level: Experts only

Reproduction: Egg Layer