Banded Cat Shark

Also known as Coral Cat Shark, Small-Spotted Cat Shark, Brown-Banded Cat Shark

The Banded Cat Shark is a beautiful small shark species featuring distinctive bold dark bands across a lighter body background. This hardy, nocturnal bottom-dweller is one of the most suitable shark species for large home aquariums. Docile and manageable, this species adapts well to captivity and exhibits fascinating behavior. The striking banded pattern makes it highly sought after by shark enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium punctatum
• Common Names: Banded Cat Shark, Whitespotted Bamboo Shark, Coral Cat Shark
• Adult Size: Up to 37 inches
• Lifespan: 15-20+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Docile; very peaceful
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; predatory
• Minimum Tank Size: 360 gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Advanced; requires specialized shark care

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires large tank with extensive open sand bed for resting and nocturnal activity. Provide caves, rocky overhangs, and smooth hiding spots. Strong water circulation with calm resting areas near the bottom. No sharp decorations. Smooth surfaces are essential.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Salinity: 1.023-1.026
• pH: 8.0-8.4
• Pristine water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• High-capacity filtration system (heavy bioload)
• Large protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation (4,000+ GPH)
• UV sterilization recommended
• Sand substrate essential (fine to medium)

These maintain excellent water quality for this messy predator.

Diet & Feeding

Banded Cat Sharks are carnivorous bottom-feeding predators.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Fresh or frozen whole fish (silversides, lance fish, smelt)
• Variety: Fresh shrimp (whole), squid, scallops, clams, mussels
• Live Foods: Ghost shrimp, small crabs (occasional enrichment)
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched foods 2-3 times weekly

Feeding Frequency: 3-4 times weekly; substantial meals

Special Note: Strictly nocturnal feeder; feed during evening or with lights completely off. May refuse food if fed during bright daylight. Uses barbels to locate prey by smell and touch.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Only with large fish too big to swallow
• Very Peaceful: Extremely docile toward tankmates
• Multiple Sharks: Can be kept with other peaceful shark species in large systems
• Predatory: Will consume any fish small enough to eat

Notes & Considerations

• Stunning appearance: bold dark brown/black bands on tan background.
• Bands remain distinct throughout life unlike some bamboo shark species.
• White spots often present on the body between bands.
• Very docile and harmless to humans; can be carefully handled.
• Bottom-dwelling; rests on a sand bed during the day.
• Strictly nocturnal: Only active at night or in very dim lighting.
• Hides in caves during bright daylight hours; completely normal.
• Uses sensitive barbels near the mouth to detect prey.
• Often “walks” using pectoral fins along the bottom.
• Constantly explores substrate at night searching for food.
• Hardy and adapts well to aquarium life.
• Will eat any fish it can swallow whole.
• Cannot be housed with small fish, shrimp, or crabs.
• Very sensitive to copper-based medications; never use copper.
• Skin lacks scales; easily damaged by rough surfaces or sharp objects.
• Requires completely smooth decorations and tank edges.
• Produces substantial waste; excellent filtration is mandatory.
• Overfeeding causes dangerous ammonia spikes; feed appropriately.
• Can jump or crawl during acclimation; secure lid essential.
• Oviparous (egg-laying); lays eggs in aquariums.
• Egg cases have a distinctive purse shape with tendrils.
• Eggs hatch in approximately 120 days if conditions are suitable.
• Males have prominent claspers near pelvic fins; easy to sex.
• Native to Indo-Pacific coral reef regions.
• Similar care to Bamboo Cat Shark but more strictly nocturnal.
• Excellent choice for shark enthusiasts wanting striking patterns.
• Long-lived; 15-20+ year commitment.
• Legal in most areas; verify local regulations before acquisition.
• Requires advanced elasmobranch husbandry knowledge.
• Not suitable for reef or standard community aquariums.

Why Choose a Quarantined Banded Cat Shark?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, properly acclimated shark. All specimens are carefully observed, treated appropriately (never with copper), and trained to accept varied prepared foods before sale. Proper quarantine eliminates parasites and stress, which are critical concerns for sensitive elasmobranchs. This provides the strongest foundation for long-term success with this beautiful and manageable species.