Coral Cat Shark (Atelomycterus marmoratus)

Coral catsharks are relatively small compared to their deep-sea cousins, but they possess incredible evolutionary traits. Understanding their biology helps researchers protect fragile coral reef ecosystems across the globe.

• Adaptive Camouflage: Coral catsharks have a striking pattern of dark and light spots that mimic the shadows of coral reefs. This incredible evolutionary trait is known as adaptive coloration, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings to hide from larger predators and ambush prey.

• Cat-Like Eyes: They earn their "catshark" moniker from their elongated, slitted eyes. These specialized eyes are highly adapted for low-light vision, giving them a distinct advantage when hunting after the sun goes down.

• Slender Bodies for Reef Navigating: Unlike bulky open-water sharks, this species features a highly elongated, flexible body. This slender shape allows them to squeeze effortlessly into tight crevices, caves, and coral formations to rest during the daytime.

• Benthic Bottom-Dwellers: These sharks are primarily benthic, meaning they spend the majority of their lives resting on or hovering just above the seafloor. They use their strong pectoral fins to almost "walk" along the sand and rocks rather than constantly swimming.

• Diet and Hunting Style: Because they hunt at night, they rely heavily on their acute sense of smell and electroreception to find food. Their diet consists mainly of small reef fish, crustaceans, and various invertebrates hiding in the substrate.

Coral Cat Shark are also sometimes known simply as Marbled Shark. Not often seen in the aquarium trade. Coral Cat Sharks have an all over dark body, white belly with light colored spots and stripes and white tips on their dorsal fin. Coral Cat Shark can grow to almost 28".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 180 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

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