Quick answer
Sand tiger sharks expose rows of pointed teeth even when mouths are closed, weighing about 150 kg and living 15 years. Despite fierce appearance they are slow and rarely harm humans — listed Vulnerable from slow reproduction and coastal fisheries.
Key takeaway
Sand tiger sharks expose rows of pointed teeth even when mouths are closed, weighing about 150 kg and living 15 years. Despite fierce appearance they are slow and rarely harm humans — listed Vulnerable from slow reproduction and coastal fisheries.
Sand Tiger Shark overview
Sand Tiger Shark (Carcharias taurus) is a fish listed here as Vulnerable. Typical weight 90–160 kg (200–350 lb); max about 190 kg; lifespan around 12–15 years in the wild.
Sand Tiger Shark ecology
Diet: Carnivore — fish, squid, and smaller sharks. Habitat: Coastal waters worldwide — sandy nearshore. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Sand Tiger Sharks and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild sand tiger sharks are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Vulnerable. See the full Sand Tiger Shark profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Conservation and coexistence
Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate change threaten many populations. Responsible ecotourism and community conservation help in parts of their range. Never approach or feed wild sand tiger sharks.
Human interest and research
Sand Tiger Sharks feature in folklore, tourism, and scientific study worldwide. Ongoing research tracks population trends, genetics, and responses to environmental change — data that guides national protection policies.
Sources
Sand Tiger Shark FAQs
What are key facts about sand tiger sharks?
Sand tiger sharks expose rows of pointed teeth even when mouths are closed, weighing about 150 kg and living 15 years. Despite fierce appearance they are slow and rarely harm humans — listed Vulnerable from slow reproduction and coastal fisheries.
What is the scientific name of the sand tiger shark?
Carcharias taurus — used in research and conservation listings for sand tiger sharks.
What do sand tiger sharks eat?
Sand Tiger Sharks eat fish, squid, and smaller sharks, with seasonal and regional variation in Coastal waters worldwide — sandy nearshore.
Where do sand tiger sharks live?
They are associated with Coastal waters worldwide — sandy nearshore. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of sand tiger sharks?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.