Hemiscyllium trispeculare

Hemiscyllium trispeculare, commonly referred to as the Large Bamboo Shark, is a captivating species native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region. This bottom-dwelling shark is renowned for its distinctive walking behaviour, using its pectoral fins to ‘walk’ along the substrate, making it a unique addition to a marine aquarium.

Care Level: Moderate to advanced. This species requires stable water parameters and a suitably large aquarium to thrive.

Temperament: Generally peaceful and slow-moving, Hemiscyllium trispeculare is compatible with other non-aggressive tank mates but should not be housed with very small fish or invertebrates that may be seen as prey.

Diet: Carnivorous. Feed a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and specialised shark pellets. Feeding should be done 2-3 times per week to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Minimum Tank Size: Due to their potential size and active nature, a minimum tank size of 180 gallons (approximately 700 litres) is recommended to provide ample swimming space and hiding places.

Lighting Requirements: Moderate lighting is sufficient, replicating their natural shaded reef and lagoon habitats.

Water Flow: Moderate water flow mimicking natural reef conditions is ideal.

Placement: Provide a sandy or fine gravel substrate with plenty of live rock caves and crevices for shelter. Ensure the tank has a secure lid as these sharks can be quite active.

Origin: Indo-Pacific region.

Maximum Size: Up to 90 cm (approximately 35 inches) in length.

With proper care, Hemiscyllium trispeculare can be a fascinating and rewarding species for marine aquarium enthusiasts seeking a unique shark with interesting behaviours.