Tawny Nurse Shark
Nebrius ferrugineus
Sighting evidence at Pulau Lima, Redang Island
Photo: Luis P. B. · CC BY-NC
Tawny nurse sharks are among the most predictable large elasmobranchs at Pulau Lima, resting in the deeper crevices and sandy overhangs beneath the coral ridges during daylight hours. As nocturnal hunters they use a powerful suction feeding technique to extract octopus, squid, and crustaceans from reef crevices, a strategy that earns them the nickname 'vacuum cleaners of the reef.' Their benign temperament and reliable resting locations make them a favourite subject for underwater photographers visiting Redang.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Tawny Nurse Shark is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.