Epaulette Shark

Also known as Walking Shark, Epaulette Carpet Shark

The Epaulette Shark is one of the most fascinating and suitable shark species for large home aquariums, featuring a tan body with distinctive large black spots ringed in white behind the pectoral fins (resembling military epaulettes), along with numerous smaller spots. Famous for its ability to “walk” on its pectoral and pelvic fins, this hardy, docile species is exceptionally well-adapted to aquarium life and represents one of the best choices for experienced aquarists wanting to keep sharks.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hemiscyllium ocellatum
• Common Names: Epaulette Shark, Walking Shark, Epaulette Carpet Shark
• Adult Size: Up to 36–42 inches
• Lifespan: 15-25+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Extremely docile; non-aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; predatory toward small fish and invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 300 gallons strongly preferred
• Experience Level: Advanced; requires specialized care but very hardy

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires large tank with extensive open sand bed and rocky caves for daytime hiding. This species needs areas to “walk” and explore. Provide smooth rockwork, caves, and ledges. Strong water circulation with calm bottom areas. No sharp decorations. Rounded corners preferred.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023-1.026
• pH: 8.0-8.4
• Excellent water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

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

These maintain pristine conditions for this active bottom-dweller.

Diet & Feeding

Epaulette Sharks are carnivorous predators adapted for bottom feeding.

Recommended foods include:

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

Feeding Frequency: 4-5 times weekly; moderate meals

Special Note: Nocturnal and crepuscular feeder; feed during evening. Uses barbels and electroreception to locate buried prey. May need target feeding initially.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Only with large fish too big to eat
• Extremely Docile: One of the most peaceful shark species
• Multiple Sharks: Can be kept with other peaceful sharks in very large systems
• Predatory: Will consume small fish and all crustaceans

Notes & Considerations

• Famous “walking” ability: Uses muscular pectoral and pelvic fins to walk along the bottom.
• Distinctive appearance: large black spots with white rings behind pectoral fins.
• A tan body covered with smaller brown spots creates a beautiful pattern.
• One of the most aquarium-suitable shark species available.
• Extremely hardy and adapts exceptionally well to captivity.
• Very docile and harmless to humans; can be carefully handled.
• Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular (active dawn/dusk).
• Hides in caves during bright daylight; normal behavior.
• Remarkable adaptation: Can survive low oxygen conditions by shutting down brain regions.
• In nature, tolerates being stranded in tide pools.
• Bottom-dwelling; spends most time on substrate.
• Constantly “walks” around the tank exploring for food.
• Fascinating to observe as it uses fins to crawl over obstacles.
• Uses sensitive barbels near the mouth to detect prey.
• Will eat any fish small enough to swallow.
• Consumes all crustaceans: shrimp, crabs, hermit crabs.
• Not compatible with small fish or ornamental invertebrates.
• Very sensitive to copper medications; never use copper treatments.
• Skin lacks scales; requires smooth surfaces to prevent damage.
• Produces significant waste; robust filtration essential.
• Can crawl out of the tank during maintenance; extreme caution needed.
• Secure lid essential; can climb and escape if determined.
• Oviparous (egg-laying); readily breeds in aquariums.
• Egg cases are purse-shaped; hatch in 120-130 days.
• One of the easiest sharks to breed in captivity.
• Males have prominent claspers; easy to sex.
• Native to shallow reefs of Australia and New Guinea.
• Very long-lived; 20-25+ years not uncommon.
• Excellent choice for experienced aquarists wanting sharks.
• Legal in most areas but verify local regulations.
• Represents multi-decade commitment.
• Commands premium prices but worth investment for serious hobbyists.

Why Choose a Quarantined Epaulette Shark?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, fully acclimated shark. All specimens are carefully observed, treated appropriately (never with copper), and trained to accept varied prepared foods before sale. Epaulette Sharks are remarkably hardy, but proper quarantine eliminates parasites and ensures optimal health. This provides the absolute best foundation for long-term success with this exceptional species.