Triaenodon obesus
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
1-40 meters
The whitetip reef shark is the most commonly encountered shark species in Komodo National Park and a favourite among divers. Easily identified by the distinctive white tips on its dorsal and caudal fins, this slender shark rarely exceeds 1.6 metres in length. During the day, whitetip reef sharks are often found resting in caves, under ledges, or on sandy patches between coral formations, as they are primarily nocturnal hunters. At night, they become active predators, using their slender bodies to wriggle into crevices and coral holes to flush out sleeping reef fish, octopuses, and crustaceans. In Komodo, they are seen at virtually every dive site but are particularly abundant at sites with strong currents and healthy reef structure. Unlike many shark species, whitetips can pump water over their gills while stationary, allowing them to rest motionless on the bottom — a behaviour that delights divers who can observe them up close.
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Average Size
1-1.4m
Size Range
0.8-1.6m
Maximum Size
1.6m
Nocturnal predator feeding on reef fish, octopuses, spiny lobsters, and crabs. Hunts by probing crevices and coral holes with its slender body, often hunting cooperatively with other whitetips to corner prey.
The whitetip reef shark is the most commonly encountered shark species in Komodo National Park and a favourite among divers. Easily identified by the distinctive white tips on its dorsal and caudal fins, this slender shark rarely exceeds 1.6 metres in length. During the day, whitetip reef sharks are often found resting in caves, under ledges, or on sandy patches between coral formations, as they are primarily nocturnal hunters. At night, they become active predators, using their slender bodies to wriggle into crevices and coral holes to flush out sleeping reef fish, octopuses, and crustaceans. In Komodo, they are seen at virtually every dive site but are particularly abundant at sites with strong currents and healthy reef structure. Unlike many shark species, whitetips can pump water over their gills while stationary, allowing them to rest motionless on the bottom — a behaviour that delights divers who can observe them up close.
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 are generally docile and not considered dangerous. However, they are still wild predators and should be treated with respect. Do not corner or harass them, and avoid carrying speared fish which can trigger feeding behaviour.
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