Wobbegong

Wobbegongs are a group of twelve species of carpet sharks in the family Orectolobidae. They are found in shallow temperate and tropical waters of the western Pacific and eastern Indian Oceans, primarily around Australia and Indonesia, though some species range further afield.

Description: Wobbegongs are characterized by their flattened bodies, mottled coloration that allows them to blend in with the seafloor, and distinctive dermal lobes around their mouths. These lobes resemble a beard or seaweed and serve as camouflage and sensory aids, attracting unsuspecting prey. Their name is believed to originate from an Australian Aboriginal language, possibly meaning "shaggy beard." Wobbegongs range in size, depending on the species, from around 1.2 meters (4 feet) to over 3 meters (10 feet) in length.

Habitat and Behavior: Wobbegongs are benthic ambush predators. They spend most of their time lying motionless on the seafloor, waiting for prey to approach. They are generally nocturnal and primarily feed on bony fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. They are relatively docile sharks, but can bite if provoked, and their jaws are powerful.

Conservation Status: The conservation status of wobbegongs varies by species. Some species, like the Spotted Wobbegong ( Orectolobus maculatus ), are listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN, due to habitat degradation and overfishing. Others, like the Japanese Wobbegong (Orectolobus japonicus), are considered Least Concern.

Species: The twelve recognized species of wobbegong are:

• Banded Wobbegong (Orectolobus halei)
• Dwarf Spotted Wobbegong (Orectolobus parvimaculatus)
• Floral Banded Wobbegong (Orectolobus floridus)
• Gulf Wobbegong (Orectolobus hutchinsi)
• Japanese Wobbegong (Orectolobus japonicus)
• Ocellated Wobbegong (Orectolobus maculatus)
• Ornate Wobbegong (Orectolobus ornatus)
• Pygmy Wobbegong (Orectolobus wardi)
• Saddled Wobbegong (Orectolobus erinaceus)
• Spotted Wobbegong (Orectolobus maculatus)
• Tasselled Wobbegong (Eucrossorhinus dasypogon)
• Western Wobbegong (Orectolobus occidentalis)

Relationship with Humans: Wobbegongs are not considered to be a significant threat to humans, but bites can occur if they are disturbed or feel threatened. Their attractive appearance also makes them popular in aquariums. Some species are targeted by commercial fisheries for their meat and skin.