Chiloscyllium plagiosum
Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY
Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY
SKU:F-SRK-001
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Expert
Aggressive
Not Reef Safe
Whitespotted Bamboo Shark
Whitespotted Bamboo Shark – Chiloscyllium plagiosum
The Whitespotted Bamboo Shark, scientifically known as Chiloscyllium plagiosum, is also commonly referred to as the Bamboo Shark or Cat Shark because of the small whisker-like barbels around its mouth. It is one of the most popular shark species suitable for very large home aquariums, featuring a brown body beautifully patterned with broad bands and pale spots that create a striking appearance.
This shark spends most of its time resting on the aquarium floor and slowly cruising the substrate in search of food. Compared to many other shark species, it is calm, hardy, and relatively easy to care for when provided with an appropriately sized aquarium.
Key Features
- One of the most popular shark species for large home aquariums.
- Beautifully patterned body with attractive bands and spots.
- Calm bottom-dwelling behavior makes it fascinating to observe.
- Adds an impressive centerpiece to large marine displays.
- Curious personality and adapts well once established.
Aquarium Requirements
- Minimum Aquarium Size: Approximately 1,135 liters (300 gallons).
- Requires a large footprint with ample floor space rather than excessive height.
- A soft sand substrate is essential, as coarse gravel can damage the underside and lead to infections.
- Provide shaded areas and caves for resting.
- Excellent water quality and high-capacity filtration are mandatory.
Compatibility & Temperament
| Aggression Level | Relatively peaceful |
| Reef Compatibility | With caution |
| Invertebrate Compatibility | Will consume shrimp, crabs, and many other crustaceans and invertebrates. |
| Fish Compatibility | Compatible with larger marine fish that are too large to be swallowed. |
The Whitespotted Bamboo Shark is generally peaceful toward similarly sized fish but should never be housed with small fish or ornamental crustaceans that may become prey. It is best suited for spacious fish-only or carefully planned predator aquariums.
Feeding
When first introduced, feeding can be encouraged by offering highly attractive fresh marine foods. Once acclimated, the shark readily accepts a varied carnivorous diet.
Recommended foods include:
- Fresh squid.
- Live marine shrimp during initial acclimation.
- Shrimp.
- Scallops.
- Fresh marine fish.
- Frozen mussels.
- Whole clams in the shell.
Warning: Never use medications containing copper (Copper) with this species. Sharks are extremely sensitive to copper-based treatments, which can be highly toxic and potentially fatal.
Reefamorous Tip: Feed a varied selection of high-quality marine seafood to ensure balanced nutrition and healthy growth. Using feeding tongs can help target-feed the shark and reduce food competition from faster tank mates.
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