Nurse Sharks Facts & Dive Highlights

1. Nurse sharks are a type of carpet shark, known for their docile nature.
2. They are commonly found in warm, shallow waters, such as coral reefs and mangroves.
3. These sharks have a wide distribution, inhabiting the Atlantic and eastern Pacific Oceans.
4. Nurse sharks are nocturnal animals, spending their days resting in groups.
5. They have small mouths and strong jaws, perfect for crushing the shells of crustaceans and mollusks.
6. Their diet consists mainly of invertebrates like crabs, shrimp, and snails, as well as small fish.
7. Nurse sharks have distinctive barbels near their nostrils, which help them sense prey in the dark.
8. They can grow up to 10 feet long, but most adults average around 7.5 feet.
9. These sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning the eggs hatch inside the mother's body, and the pups are born live.
10. A female nurse shark can give birth to 20-30 pups in a litter.
11. Nurse sharks have a lifespan of about 25 years in the wild.
12. They are generally harmless to humans, but can bite if provoked.
13. These sharks play an important role in maintaining the health of coral reef ecosystems.
14. Nurse sharks are often seen resting on the ocean floor or in caves.
15. They are popular among scuba divers and snorkelers due to their calm demeanor and accessibility.

Image available on Discord