The Australian Epaulette Shark is a fairly small bottom-dwelling shark. It has a series of small spots on a yellowish-tan body and is most easily recognised by the large spot directly above each pectoral fin. The Australian Epaulette Shark can reach a maximum size of 110cm. A tank of 1635L or larger should be adequate. It requires sand as the substrate in the aquarium as the Epaulette's abdomen is easily scratched by coarser substrates, which ccan lead to infection. It should never be exposed to copper-based medications. The Epaulette Shark will eat invertebrates in the aquarium, and since it is primarily active at night, will prey upon any small, sleeping fish.
When first introduced into the aquarium, small pieces of cleaned squid or live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish.
The Epaulette Shark should only be kept by expert aquarists.
Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Aggressive
Colour Form: Tan, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: No
Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 23-26° C, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size: 110cm
Family: Orectolobidae
Minimum Tank Size: 1635L
