Stegostomatidae

The Stegostomatidae family of sharks contains only one member, the zebra shark (Stegostoma fasciatum). This species is found in coral reef ecosystems in the Indian and western Pacific Oceans.1

Zebra sharks are carpet sharks that can grow up to 3.7 meters (12 feet) in length, though most are around 2.3 meters (7.5 feet). Their coloration changes with age: juveniles have distinct yellow and dark brown stripes, while adults develop brown spots on a yellow background. They are nocturnal hunters, feeding on mollusks, small fish, shrimp, and crabs, using their flexible bodies to access prey in tight spaces.1

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the zebra shark as endangered due to overfishing, particularly in Southeast Asia.1