Epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) care guide

Group
Marine fish
Family
Hemiscylliidae (bamboo sharks)
Water
saltwater
Maximum size
107 cm
Temperature
24–27°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
Salinity SG 1.023–1.026
Care level
expert
Temperament
semi_aggressive
Reef safe
no

Care

Tank and decor: at 107 cm adult length this shark outgrows home aquaria and is for public-aquarium-sized systems. The list quotes a minimum of 260 US gallons (about 980 litres), with a large footprint of open sand and smooth rockwork. Strong filtration and a secure cover are essential. Water: our sources give no species-specific figures, so the values here are general marine aquarium guidance, not species-specific: 24–27 °C, pH 8.1–8.4 and specific gravity 1.023–1.026. Sharks are sensitive to copper and many other medications. Behaviour and identification: a slim bottom-dweller named after the large dark "epaulette" spot behind each pectoral fin; it can walk over rock on its paired fins. The list calls it one of the best sharks for aquaria, as it adapts easily and breeds in captivity, but notes adult males may be aggressive to other males and harass females. At up to 107 cm it is for public-aquarium-sized systems. Selling: our policies require the adult size and long-term tank needs to be stated clearly in the listing. Large fish must travel by a specialist live-animal courier (see the Livestock shipping guide). Sources: Wikipedia, List of marine aquarium fish species (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Listofmarineaquariumfishspecies). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Carnivorous. Feed a varied diet of meaty marine foods such as squid, prawn, mussels, clams and fish pieces, with a vitamin and iodine supplement to help prevent goitre. Feed two or three times a week to appetite rather than daily; overfeeding causes fast growth and health problems.

Breeding

The list says it breeds in aquaria and that adult males may harass females, so give females places to rest out of reach. Our sources for this page give no species-specific breeding details.

Compatibility and tank mates

Not reef safe: it digs in the sand, knocks over unsecured rock and eats crabs, shrimps, snails and small fish. Keep it with large, peaceful fish that will not nip it, and avoid triggerfish, large angelfish and puffers, which may bite fins and skin. Keep only one adult male.

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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