Sharks, The Great 8, Southern Great Barrier Reef

Sharks are the top predator of the Great Barrier Reef. They play an important role in ensuring the ecosystem remains healthy by feeding on the sick and injured and controlling those species that have had population explosions.

Sharks have multiple rows of teeth for hunting purposes. Unlike many other animals, sharks teeth are constantly being replaced.

Different types of sharks reproduce in different ways. Some lay eggs with a tough outer skin while others give birth to live young.

There are many different species of sharks found in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef ranging from small bottom-dwelling sharks such as wobbegongs to larger types such as tiger sharks and the distinctive hammerhead shark that has a nose shaped like the letter ‘t’.

The most common species of sharks seen on the Great Barrier Reef are white tip or black tip reef sharks. These sharks feed on fish and pose no danger to humans, in fact they are timid and are easily scared.