Epaulette Shark
Hemiscyllium ocellatum
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Suggested Tank
300+ gallons
Max Size
42 inches
Difficulty
Temperament
Description
A small, bottom-dwelling carpet shark with a slender tan body covered in dark spots and a large black, white-rimmed ocellus ("epaulette") behind each pectoral fin; it uses its paddle-like fins to "walk" across the substrate and tolerates low oxygen better than most sharks. Docile toward people but a determined nocturnal predator that will swallow any fish, shrimp, or crab it can fit in its mouth, and it will bulldoze rockwork and corals. Needs a very large, long-footprint system (300+ gallons) with a deep fine sand bed, smooth secured rock caves, cool stable water, no copper, and covered pumps/overflows.
Reef Safe
No
Environment
They require a well-maintained saltwater aquarium with plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks and caves. The water temperature should be kept between 72-78°F, with a pH level of 8.1-8.4 and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Behavior
Epaulette Sharks are generally docile and can be quite active during nighttime. They are known for their unique ability to 'walk' across the substrate using their fins.
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Epaulette Shark
Hemiscyllium ocellatum
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