Negaprion brevirostris

The Lemon Shark is known for its social behavior, often found in groups which can aid in hunting and protection. It prefers shallow coastal waters and is known to return to specific nursery areas to give birth, demonstrating remarkable site fidelity.

Lemon Sharks are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Females use shallow, protected waters as nurseries, offering their offspring a safe haven from predators. The gestation period lasts about 10 to 12 months, with females giving birth to litters of 4 to 17 pups.

This species can be identified by its yellowish-brown skin, which provides excellent camouflage against the sandy ocean floor. Adults can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length. Despite their size, they are not considered a significant threat to humans.

The Lemon Shark has been a focal species for shark research, contributing significantly to our understanding of shark behavioral ecology, navigation, and physiology. Its predictable behavior and tendency to inhabit relatively accessible shallow waters have made it an ideal subject for scientific study.

Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, the Lemon Shark faces threats from habitat destruction, commercial fishing practices, and the shark fin trade. Efforts to protect their nursery areas and regulate fishing practices are crucial for their conservation.