Carcharhinus longimanus
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oceanic_whitetip_shark
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The oceanic whitetip shark has experienced catastrophic population declines exceeding 80% globally due to intensive commercial fishing pressure. As a slow-growing species with late sexual maturity, it is particularly vulnerable to overexploitation through both targeted fisheries and as bycatch in tuna and billfish longline operations. Its distinctive large pectoral fins are highly valued in the shark fin trade, making it a preferred target species despite international protection measures.
Habitat
The oceanic whitetip shark inhabits warm, tropical and subtropical open ocean waters worldwide, typically found in the epipelagic zone from the surface to depths of 200 meters. This highly migratory species prefers deep blue waters far from shore, often associated with floating debris or following ships, and is commonly found in areas with water temperatures above 18°C.
