Common name: Tawny Nurse Shark

General Information

The Tawny Nurse Shark, scientifically known as Nebrius ferrugineus, is a fascinating species in the aquarium trade, although not commonly kept due to its size and specific care requirements. This shark is known for its distinctive rusty brown coloration, which gives it its common name. It is a nocturnal predator, often found resting in caves or under ledges during the day.

In the wild, the Tawny Nurse Shark plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the reef ecosystem by preying on a variety of marine organisms. Its presence in the aquarium trade is limited, primarily to large public aquariums, due to its size and the complexity of its care.

Care

Caring for a Tawny Nurse Shark is a challenging endeavor suitable only for experienced aquarists with access to very large aquariums. These sharks require a spacious environment that mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of room to swim and areas to rest during the day. A tank with a volume of several thousand liters is necessary to accommodate their size and ensure their well-being.

The tank should be equipped with robust filtration systems to maintain excellent water quality, as these sharks produce significant waste. Strong water flow and stable water parameters are essential to replicate their natural environment.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Tawny Nurse Sharks are opportunistic feeders, preying on fish, octopuses, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes fresh or frozen seafood such as fish fillets, squid, and shrimp. Feeding should occur several times a week, with portions adjusted based on the shark's size and activity level.

Behavior and Compatibility

Tawny Nurse Sharks have a generally docile temperament but can become aggressive if threatened or stressed. They are best kept alone or with other large, non-aggressive marine species that can tolerate their presence. Due to their size and potential aggression, they are not suitable for community tanks with smaller or more delicate species.

Reproduction

Breeding Tawny Nurse Sharks in captivity is extremely rare and challenging due to their size and specific environmental needs. In the wild, they are ovoviviparous, with females giving birth to live young after a gestation period.

Habitat

The Tawny Nurse Shark is found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, inhabiting coral reefs, sandy flats, and seagrass beds. They prefer warm, shallow waters and are often seen resting in groups during the day. Their natural habitat provides ample hiding spots and a diverse range of prey.

Conservation Status

The Tawny Nurse Shark is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and fishing pressures. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and sustainable fishing practices to ensure the survival of this species in the wild.