Indonesian Speckled Carpet Shark

About the Indonesian Speckled Carpet Shark

Indonesian speckled carpet sharks now have a restricted range in the Indonesian province of Papua Barat (West Papua). They were previously believed to have a wider range.   

Biology and Behaviour:

Indonesian speckled carpet sharks occur in shallow waters on coral reefs, sandy and grassy substrates, but its exact depth is unknown.  

There is little known about Indonesian speckled carpet sharks. However, similar to the Brownbanded bamboo shark, Indonesian speckled carpet sharks are also nocturnal and hide in reef crevices during the day. They are distinctly known for their smaller black spots behind their gills.

The smallest young Indonesian speckled carpet shark was 21.4 cm long and the longest measured Indonesian speckled carpet shark was 66.3 cm, but the maximum length is unknown.

Reproduction and Lifespan

There is little known about the Indonesian speckled carpet sharks other than they are oviparous.

Conservation and Tourism  

The IUCN lists the Indonesian speckled carpet shark as near threatened. There are currently no conservation measures in place.  

They are susceptible to habitat destruction from dynamite fishing practices. Fishing pressure in shallow inshore environments can be significant in eastern Indonesia. Illegal fishing activities also post a threat within the habitat of this species which is an on-going issue within Indonesian waters.

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Indonesian Speckled Carpet Shark Gallery