The Epaulette Shark(Hemiscyllium ocellatum), also known as the Walking Shark, is quite a unique fish; it can “walk” for short distance on its paddle-shaped pectoral and pelvic fins. However they are capable of swimming. The Epaulette Shark is classified in the order Orectolobiformes and the family Hemiscylliidae.
| Genus | Hemiscyllium |
| Species | H. ocellatum |
| Binomial Name | Hemiscyllium ocellatum |
| Length | 70 cm to 1.1 m(2’3.6″-3’7.3″) |
| Weight | 2.7-2.9 kg(6-6.4 lbs.) |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| IUCN Status | Least concern |
Range and Habitat
Epaulette Sharks inhabit shallow reefs of Australia and New Guinea.
Identification
The Epaulette Shark has a white-margined black spot behind each pectoral fin, which resemble military epaulettes. It also has a short, rounded snout with a pair of tiny barbels.
Reproduction
Epaulette Sharks are oviparous; this means they lay eggs. The pups are precocial.
Diet
Epaulette Sharks eat benthic crustaceans, worms, and small bony fish.
Fun Facts
- There are many Epaulette Sharks living on the Great Barrier Reef.
- Epaulette Sharks are capable of surviving on very little oxygen for up to an hour.
- Epaulette Sharks live for up to 25 years.
