Epaulette Shark

My species/animal is a fish — Epaulette Shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) — a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its unique ability to “walk” using its pectoral fins, distinctive dark spot (epaulette) behind the head, compact size, and hardy nature.

Males typically develop claspers near their pelvic fins and are slightly slimmer, while females/juveniles tend to be rounder-bodied and smaller, with juveniles exhibiting more pronounced patterns. They reach about 24–30 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons.

Provide a fine sandbed for resting, plenty of live rock and caves for hiding spots, and moderate open swimming space, with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since they are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, and marine pellets, and with proper care this fish makes a standout addition to the aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.