Leopard sharks, locally also known as the zebra sharks (Stegostoma tigrinum), are a distinctive species inhabiting Thailand’s coastal waters. These sharks plays a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reef ecosystems, and are easily recognized by their unique spotted pattern and graceful movements.
However, over the past two decades, their numbers have declined due to overfishing, bycatch, and habitat degradation. It has not been only Thailand that has seen this slow decline, but all over. Although, we have been seeing a healthy rise in their sightings by our guests & dive teams.
Recent conservation initiatives aim to restore their populations and protect their natural habitats.
Habitat and Distribution in Thailand
Leopard sharks are predominantly found in the Andaman Sea, favoring coral reefs, sandy flats, and rocky areas. Notable locations include the Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, and Surin Islands. These areas provide essential shelter and feeding grounds necessary for their survival..
If you are looking for the chance to see Leopard Sharks up close, view our Thailand scuba diving liveaboard trips, which have the best chance of seeing one of these majestic creatures –
The Best of Thailand (from mid October to mid May)
Similan Islands Diving (from mid October to mid May)
Southern Thailand (from mid May to end of June)
Southern Explorer (July & August)
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
Leopard sharks exhibit a unique transformation as they mature. Juveniles display dark stripes reminiscent of a zebra, which gradually evolve into the characteristic leopard-like spots in adulthood. They can grow up to 3 meters in length and are known for their elongated caudal fins and cylindrical bodies.
Primarily nocturnal, these sharks rest on the ocean floor during the day and become active hunters at night, feeding on a variety of invertebrates and small fish.
Diet and Feeding Habits
The diet of leopard sharks is diverse, consisting mainly of mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They utilize their strong jaws to crush hard-shelled prey and are adept at navigating reef crevices to locate food.
Their feeding habits play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem by controlling the population of their prey species.
Reproduction and Lifespan
Leopard sharks are oviparous, laying eggs that hatch after an incubation period of approximately five months. Females can lay up to four eggs at a time, attaching them to the sea floor using filamentous fibers. The hatchlings, measure around 20–26 cm and are independent from birth.
These sharks have a slow growth rate, reaching sexual maturity at around 4 years of age, and can live up to 25–35 years in the wild.
Conservation Status and Threats
Currently, the leopard shark is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The primary threats to their survival include overfishing, bycatch, and habitat destruction due to coral reef degradation. Efforts are underway to raise awareness and implement protective measures to increase numbers the word over.
Conservation Initiatives in Thailand
To combat the declining population of leopard sharks, Thailand has launched several conservation projects.
The “Spot the Leopard Shark – Thailand” initiative encourages divers and snorkelers to photograph and report sightings, aiding in population monitoring and research.
Additionally, the StAR Project (Stegostoma tigrinum Augmentation and Recovery) focuses on breeding and reintroducing leopard sharks into their natural habitats. Recently, Phuket Aquarium successfully transferred nine juvenile sharks from a sea pen to near Maiton Island, where they will acclimate before being released into the wild.
Back in 2021, we teamed up with Oceans for All and put on a specific ‘Leopard Shark Expedition‘, on The Junk where we also released 5 small Bamboo Sharks into the ocean from their shark breeding scheme.
Below is a video of DNA collection from a Leopard Shark, of theirs –
Community Involvement and Education
As expected, public participation plays a vital role in the success of conservation efforts.
Awareness about the importance of leopard sharks and marine conservation can be heightened by engaging local communities and tourists in citizen science projects.
Educational programs and workshops aim to inform the public about sustainable practices and the ecological significance of preserving shark populations.
Conclusion
Leopard sharks are an integral part of Thailand’s marine ecosystem, contributing to the health and diversity of coral reef environments. Through concerted conservation efforts, habitat protection, and community engagement, there is hope for the recovery and sustainable future of this remarkable species in Thai waters.
