Eucrossorhinus dasypogon
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
3-40 meters
The tasselled wobbegong is one of Komodo's most bizarre and fascinating shark species — a flat, carpet-like ambush predator that looks more like a shaggy rug than a shark. Reaching up to 1.8 metres in length, this bottom-dwelling species is adorned with an elaborate fringe of branching dermal lobes around its head and chin that break up its outline and perfectly mimic the surrounding reef. Its flattened body is covered in an intricate pattern of reticulated markings that blend seamlessly with coral, algae, and rock. Wobbegongs spend the day lying motionless on the reef, waiting for unsuspecting fish or crustaceans to wander within striking distance. When prey passes over or near its head, the wobbegong strikes with explosive speed, engulfing the victim in its cavernous mouth in a fraction of a second. In Komodo, tasselled wobbegongs are prized sightings found at select sites, often tucked under table corals or wedged beneath overhangs. Their perfect camouflage means many divers swim directly over them without ever knowing they were there.
Average Size
1-1.4m
Size Range
0.5-1.8m
Maximum Size
1.8m
Ambush predator feeding on reef fish, octopuses, crustaceans, and smaller sharks. Lies motionless and strikes with explosive speed when prey passes within range, engulfing victims in its enormous gape.
The tasselled wobbegong is one of Komodo's most bizarre and fascinating shark species — a flat, carpet-like ambush predator that looks more like a shaggy rug than a shark. Reaching up to 1.8 metres in length, this bottom-dwelling species is adorned with an elaborate fringe of branching dermal lobes around its head and chin that break up its outline and perfectly mimic the surrounding reef. Its flattened body is covered in an intricate pattern of reticulated markings that blend seamlessly with coral, algae, and rock. Wobbegongs spend the day lying motionless on the reef, waiting for unsuspecting fish or crustaceans to wander within striking distance. When prey passes over or near its head, the wobbegong strikes with explosive speed, engulfing the victim in its cavernous mouth in a fraction of a second. In Komodo, tasselled wobbegongs are prized sightings found at select sites, often tucked under table corals or wedged beneath overhangs. Their perfect camouflage means many divers swim directly over them without ever knowing they were there.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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They will not attack divers unprovoked, but their bite is extremely powerful and they are known to latch on and not release. Most incidents occur when divers accidentally place a hand or foot near the head. Always check before touching the reef.
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