Spotted Wobbegong
Orectolobus maculatus
- Group: Shark
- Typical depth: 0–248 m
- Max size: 3.2 m
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: LC
A broad, flattened carpet shark patterned to vanish against the reef, the spotted wobbegong lies still by day and hunts at night, waiting with its fringed mouth for fish to pass within reach. It has been seen in water barely deep enough to cover it, even hauling itself over ridges between tide pools with its back in the air. It can bite if trodden on or provoked.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Orectolobiformes › Orectolobidae › Orectolobus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 281931.
FAQ
- How deep does the Spotted Wobbegong live?
- The Spotted Wobbegong (Orectolobus maculatus) is typically found at 0–248 m.
- Is the Spotted Wobbegong dangerous to divers?
- The Spotted Wobbegong can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Spotted Wobbegong get?
- The Spotted Wobbegong grows to about 3.2 m.