Introduction
The Nurse Shark is a member of the Ginglymostomatidae family. It is known for its docile behavior and slow-moving ways, making it a relatively accessible species for fishers and divers.
Conservation Status
As of current, Nurse Sharks are listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List due to a lack of information on its population trends. Despite this, there are ongoing efforts to better understand and consequently conserve this species.
Statistics
| Statistic | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8-9 feet | 7.5-14 feet |
| Weight | 200-330 lbs | 90-270 kg |
| Average Lifespan | 25 years | N/A |
Distribution
Nurse Sharks are typically found in warm, tropical waters. They are identified in the coastal areas of the East and West Atlantic, and the East Pacific. They tend not to migrate and are generally restricted to their local areas.
Habitats
These sharks favor the shallow waters of reefs and sandy flats, and are commonly found in depths ranging from 1 to 75 meters. They prefer warm waters with a temperature range of 20 – 28°C.
When and Where to See
Nurse Sharks are largely nocturnal creatures, making the best time to see them during late evenings or at night. They follow a seasonal pattern as they mate in the late spring/early summer.
Best Fishing Locations
- Bahamas
- Florida Keys, USA
- Belize
- Galapagos Islands
- Jardines de la Reina, Cuba
- Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
- Cayman Islands
- Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands
- Simon’s Town, South Africa
- Western Australia
General Tips
Focus on shallow tropical waters, preferably near coral reefs and sandy flats.
How to Catch
Nurse Sharks are not typically caught due to their slow and non-threatening nature. However, they are occasionally caught accidentally by fishers using non-selective fishing gear such as nets.
Identification Guide
Nurse Sharks can be identified by their yellow-brown to grey-brown color. They have a broad, flattened head and a small mouth located below the eyes. Unlike other sharks, they possess barbels, which are whisker-like organs near the nostrils.
Culinary
Nurse Sharks are not highly sought after for their meat, but can occasionally be found in local fish markets within their home range. Their meat is described as lean, mild and sweet in flavor.
Additional Information
These sharks are famously sluggish during the day, usually found resting on the sea bottom. They have a specialized respiratory system that allows them to breathe while stationary, unlike many other shark species. Their diet primarily consists of crustaceans, stingrays, sea urchins and fish.
References and Further Reading
- Florida Museum of Natural History: Nurse Shark
- National Geographic: Nurse Sharks