Hemiscylliidae

The Hemiscylliidae family, commonly known as bamboo sharks or carpet sharks, comprises approximately 14 species within two genera, Chiloscyllium and Hemiscyllium. These are small, slender sharks native to the tropical western Pacific. They are characterized by long tails, two spineless dorsal fins, and large spiracles located below their eyes.12

Bamboo sharks are bottom feeders, typically growing to about 3 feet in length and feeding on mollusks, crustaceans, shrimp, scallops, and small fish. While many carpet sharks are not considered dangerous to humans, they may defend themselves if threatened. Unfortunately, many species within this family are classified as threatened or endangered due to factors like bycatch in commercial fishing and recreational angling.21