Spotted Wobbegong Shark

The Spotted Wobbegong is a large and fascinating carpet shark that exemplifies the art of camouflage in the marine world. Its broad, flattened body is elaborately patterned with a complex mosaic of brown, tan, and cream markings that allow it to blend almost invisibly against rocky reef and algae-covered surfaces. Most distinctive are the elaborate branching dermal lobes or tassels that fringe its lower jaw and head, which serve both as sensory organs and as camouflage, mimicking the appearance of seaweed and algae growth.

In the wild, the Spotted Wobbegong is a master ambush predator found on rocky reefs, under ledges, and in caves throughout Australian waters. It lies motionless for hours, perfectly camouflaged against the substrate, waiting for unsuspecting fish, octopus, or crustaceans to wander within striking distance. When prey approaches close enough, the wobbegong strikes with lightning speed, engulfing its victim with its enormous, highly distensible mouth. Despite its lethargic appearance, the wobbegong's strike speed is impressive, and it should never be underestimated as a predator.

Keeping a Spotted Wobbegong requires an enormous commitment. While it grows to approximately 48 inches in most cases, some specimens can reach over 5 feet, necessitating a minimum tank of 500 gallons with a very wide, flat footprint. The aquarium should feature a fine sand substrate with ample caves and overhangs to replicate its natural resting habitat. The wobbegong will eat any fish or invertebrate that it can fit in its surprisingly large mouth, and it is deceptively capable of consuming fish nearly as long as itself. Despite its sedentary nature, it produces a significant bioload and requires powerful filtration. This species tolerates a range of temperatures from subtropical to temperate conditions.