Blacktip Reef Shark

Photo: Michaela S. Webb · © all rights reserved

Blacktip reef sharks cruise the Kogyo's bow and open water flanks, their distinctive black-tipped fins cutting through the blue water as they patrol for reef fish and cephalopods. As apex predators in the shallow reef ecosystem, they regulate fish populations and indirectly influence coral health by preventing overgrazing by herbivore prey. They are generally shy and will retreat at a diver's approach, making patient, still observation the best strategy for an extended encounter.