Silvertip Shark

Photo: Cécile Bonis · CC BY-NC

Silvertips are the dominant mid-water predator at Banc du Geyser, patrolling the reef edge in small groups of 3 to 8 individuals and displacing other species from the most productive current lines. Their characteristic silver-tipped fins and bold inquisitive behaviour make them one of the most photogenic sharks in the Indian Ocean, and the pristine water clarity here allows sharp encounters at 15 to 30 metres. They hunt fusiliers, snappers, and smaller reef fish by ambush from below, accelerating upward from the deep edge of the reef.