OCEANSCAPE NETWORK
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate
Leopard shark
Cartilaginous fishes
Picture
EXPLORE > ANIMALS > FISH
​
​Triakis semifasciata​
​

Perhaps one of the most strikingly beautiful sharks found along the West Coast of North America, the leopard shark is easily identified by the variegated pattern of bars and spots which extend all along its body. This unique natural camouflage helps this shark hide in the dappled sunlight that filters through the offshore kelp forests or along the rocky seabed. Leopard sharks are highly nomadic, often traveling great distances without ever revisiting the same spot twice. They are also a particularly ancient species, with fossilized examples dating back over one million years.

​Range and Habitat

The leopard shark is a wide-ranging animal, found throughout the Pacific Ocean. In Oregon it can be found as far north as Coos Bay where it favors muddy flats and estuaries. It can also be found near kelp forest, rocky reefs or cruising in the open sea.​

Conservation Status

Common.

Exclusive videos
The Killer Rep: Author and conservationist Ruth Musgrave discusses the global plight of the shark and how young people can make a difference for this imperiled species. 
Picture
Picture
About Oceanscape
The Oregon Coast Aquarium's Oceanscape Network is an educational program for youth designed to inspire curiosity in science, nature, conservation and outdoor exploration while providing valuable classroom resources for educators. MORE.
Quick Links
​Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads
Site Updates | For Educators | For Youth | Translate This Website | Contact Form | Privacy Policy | Conditions of Use | Website Accessibility
Finding the Aquarium
2820 SE Ferry Slip Road, Newport, Oregon 97365
(541) 867-3474 | oceanscape@aquarium.org
Oceanscape Network © 2023 by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. All rights reserved. 
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate