Whitetip reef shark
Triaenodon obesus
Sighting evidence at South Atoll, Tubbataha Reefs
Photo: Craig Fujii · CC BY-NC-ND
Whitetip reef sharks are found resting communally in the South Atoll's sandy lagoon and along ledges of the inner wall, often piled together in groups of 4 to 10. Their daytime lethargy contrasts with explosive nocturnal hunting as they pursue fish through crevices using their flexible bodies. The South Atoll population is one of the densest documented anywhere in the Philippines, a direct measure of effective marine protection. Vulnerable; heavily impacted by longlining and reef fisheries outside protected areas.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Whitetip reef shark is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.