Bull shark
Carcharhinus leucas
Sighting evidence at Cabo Pulmo Reef, Sea of Cortez
Photo: Luis P. B. · CC BY-NC
Bull sharks are the primary apex predator at Cabo Pulmo and their year-round presence is a direct indicator of the reef's recovered productivity — a healthy apex predator population requires a substantial prey base to sustain it. Before the fishing ban bull sharks had nearly disappeared from this reef; their return and stable residency is cited in peer-reviewed literature as evidence of full trophic recovery. They are tolerant of divers at this site and sightings on most dives are routine.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Bull shark is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.