scubaseason

Caribbean reef shark

Carcharhinus perezi

Sighting evidence at North Wall, Grand Cayman

Caribbean reef shark

Photo: Rafi Amar · CC BY-NC

Caribbean reef sharks are the defining pelagic predator of the North Wall, patrolling the blue water at the wall's edge and occasionally ascending to investigate divers. They play a critical trophic role, regulating populations of mid-level reef fish and maintaining the ecological balance of the Cayman wall ecosystem. Their hunched-back threat posture and lateral head-shake are well documented warning signs, though unprovoked encounters are extremely rare.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Caribbean reef shark is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.

Also seen at other sites