Tiger Shark: The Apex Predator of the Oceans
The Tiger Shark is one of the world’s largest sharks. Found in tropical and temperate seas, it is particularly abundant around central Pacific islands. The genus Galeocerdo contains only this species.
1. Diet
Tiger sharks are solitary, nocturnal predators. They are named for the black stripes running along their bodies. Their diet is highly varied and includes:
- Fish and smaller sharks
- Birds and seals
- Squid and turtles
- Occasionally human-made trash, like license plates and tires
In Hawaii, tiger sharks are known to attack swimmers, divers, and surfers, earning the nickname “wastebasket of the sea.”
2. Behavior
Tiger sharks are migratory, moving with warmer currents and preferring deep waters near reefs, though they hunt in shallow channels. They detect low-frequency pressure waves, allowing them to locate prey even in murky water. Notable behaviors include:
- Circling and poking prey with their nose to inspect
- Consuming nearly all prey upon attack
They are considered among the most dangerous sharks to humans, second only to the Great White Shark, earning the moniker “man-eater.”
3. Reproduction
Male tiger sharks reach sexual maturity at about 2.26 meters, while females mature between 2.5 and 3.25 meters. They are ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young. Reproduction details:
- Internal fertilization
- Northern Hemisphere mating: March–May; births: April–June next year
- Southern Hemisphere mating: November–January
They can swim at speeds of up to 32 km/h, with brief bursts of higher speed.
4. Hunting
Tiger sharks are exceptional scavengers with sharp vision and an acute sense of smell. Their hunting traits include:
- Strong jaws with serrated teeth for breaking turtle shells and clams
- Feeding on stingrays, seals, sea snakes, birds, squid, and occasionally man-made debris
- Adaptability to consume nearly any edible material found in the ocean
