The University of Miami (UM) Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science has revealed the changes to tiger shark movements including timings and locations in the western North Atlantic Ocean. This is due to an increase of ocean temperatures. The sharks have become more vulnerable through moving outside of protected areas.
By Annette J Beveridge
Found in tropical and temperate regions, the tiger shark is one of the largest sharks in the world growing over 5 m in length. They weigh between 800-1500 pounds, and live up to 50 years. Tiger sharks are the only surviving member of the genus Galeocerdo. The name tiger shark originates from the dark stripes running down its body but these fade as the shark matures. Skin varies in colour from a blue or green hue and there is a light yellow underbelly. Females grow bigger than the males.
Tiger sharks are nomadic
Tiger sharks are guided by warmer currents. They remain in deep water moving along reefs but will move closer to the shore when following prey. These are aggressive predators, often circling prey, nudging it before establishing a full attack.