Caribbean reef shark
Carcharhinus perezi
Sighting evidence at Sandy Point Reef, Saint Kitts and Nevis
Photo: Rafi Amar · CC BY-NC
Caribbean reef sharks are the most commonly encountered shark on Caribbean reefs and a vital apex predator that regulates fish community structure. They patrol reef edges at Sandy Point in small groups, typically at 15 to 20 metres, following a predictable circuit that regulars can time their dives to intercept. Their presence is strongly linked to reef health — reefs with intact shark populations have measurably higher coral cover than shark-depleted sites. Listed as Vulnerable due to fin fishing across their range. Their relative boldness and predictable behaviour make them one of the best Caribbean shark species for diver encounters.
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.