DIVE-SEEK field image · species photo unavailableshark · bamboo shark
Raja Ampat walking shark
Hemiscyllium freycineti
Small epaulette shark that walks across the reef on its fins.
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Quick facts
The Raja Ampat walking shark (Hemiscyllium freycineti) is a marine species divers can encounter. Typical size: 45–65 cm. Usually seen at 2–20 m depth. Where to see it: Raja Ampat and Ef Na.
Summarised from DIVE-SEEK's recorded catalogue data; omitted values are not yet recorded.
Taxonomic rank
species
Typical size
45–65 cm (total_length)
Maximum size
72 cm
Typical depth
2–20 m
Maximum depth
30 m
Conservation status
Research in progress
Photography difficulty
4 /5
Activity pattern
Nocturnal.
Description
Unresolved identification: WoRMS lists both Hemiscyllium freycineti (AphiaID 281035) and Hemiscyllium galei (AphiaID 398233) as accepted, and Raja Ampat animals are routinely reported under both names by operators. Retained under H. freycineti as the best-supported current usage; H. galei is the important alternative. Conservation status not populated pending a verified Red List reading.
Habitat
Shallow reef flats, rubble and seagrass of the Bird's Head Seascape.
Behaviour
Uses its pectoral and pelvic fins to walk over reef and sand while foraging.
Diet
Small crustaceans, worms and small fish.
Social behaviour
Solitary.
Photography notes
Night dive subject in shallow water. Low angle with a focus light off-axis to show the walking posture.
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