The White Tip Reef Shark or triaenodon obesus, is one of the more commonly seen sharks around the Similan Islands in Thailand and Sipadan Island in Malaysia. These relatively small sharks are non-aggressive towards people and can usually be found resting on a sand or rubble bottom. The shark derives its name from the conspicuous white tips found on the dorsal fin and upper caudal fins. The shark is characterized by a long slender body with a broad flattened head, the head features a rounded snout, a downward slanting mouth and large eyes. The White Tip Shark is found spread throughout the entire Indian and Pacific Oceans, and can be seen in large groups in certain locations.

The White Tip Reef Shark is a nocturnal hunter which usually hunts alone, but is also known to cooperate with other individuals and form large hunting packs. The shark's diet consists of shellfish, octopus and small bony reef fish and will locate its prey using its powerful senses located in its snout. Like many other shark species, White Tip Reef Sharks will become aggressive when feeding, and frenzy is witnessed by a diver, a safe distance should be kept to avoid any accidental bites. The White Tip has a viviparous reproduction system and after mating, the female will have a gestation period of about a year, before giving birth to a litter of one to five pups, which will become completely independent after birth. Sexual maturity occurs at around five years of age, and the sharks will have a lifespan of up to twenty five years.

Please follow these guidelines when encountering a White Tip Reef Shark.

• When approaching a White Tip, be as close to the bottom as possible.
• Slow your breathing, so not to scare the animal.
• Never approach from directly behind the shark, always let them see you.
• Do not touch the shark, No matter how temping.
• Do not chase the shark.
• Never buy shark fin soup or shark teeth souvenir.

Where Can I see them?

• Racha Noi
• Similan Islands
• Sipadan, Malaysia