Northern wobbegong facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Northern wobbegong |
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| Specimen at Turquoise Bay | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Orectolobus
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| Species: |
wardi
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| Range of Northern wobbegong (in blue) | |
The northern wobbegong (scientific name: Orectolobus wardi) is a type of carpet shark. These sharks are part of the Orectolobidae family, which includes many interesting bottom-dwelling sharks. You can find them swimming in the western Pacific Ocean, mostly around Australia. They live in waters from about 9 degrees South to 26 degrees South latitude. A grown northern wobbegong can be about 63 centimeters (or about 25 inches) long.
Contents
What is a Northern Wobbegong?
The northern wobbegong is a fascinating shark known for its unique appearance. It has a flattened body and a wide head, which helps it blend in with the ocean floor. Its skin has patterns that look like a carpet, helping it hide from both predators and prey. This camouflage is super important for how it hunts.
Where Do Northern Wobbegongs Live?
These sharks prefer to live in shallow, warm waters. They are often found on coral reefs, rocky areas, and sandy bottoms. Their amazing camouflage helps them disappear into these surroundings. They are native to the waters off northern Australia, where the ocean is warm and full of life.
Keeping Northern Wobbegongs as Pets
Northern wobbegongs can make good aquarium sharks because they don't grow too big. They usually reach about 30 inches (76 centimeters) when fully grown. If you wanted to keep one, a large aquarium of at least 135 gallons (about 511 liters) would be needed. However, most sharks do much better in even bigger tanks, like those 180 gallons (about 681 liters) or more. This gives them plenty of space to swim and explore.
Images for kids
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Specimen at Turquoise Bay
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Range of Northern wobbegong (in blue)
See also
In Spanish: Orectolobus wardi para niños
