The zebra shark is also called the leopard shark when it reaches adulthood and develops its spotted pattern.
Its scientific name is Stegostoma tigrinum, and it is the only living species in the family Stegostomatidae. Young zebra sharks are dark with pale longitudinal stripes, which explains the name “zebra shark.” As they mature, the stripes break up and become dark spots on a pale background, prompting the alternative “leopard shark” name.
This common-name change creates a major identification trap. The name leopard shark usually refers to Triakis semifasciata, a different houndshark found along the Pacific coast of North America. It may also be used informally for the tiger shark in some contexts. Scientific names are therefore much safer than common names when distinguishing these species.
Zebra sharks are nocturnal bottom-dwellers of the tropical Indo-Pacific. They feed on molluscs, crustaceans, and small fishes, often resting on sandy flats or coral reefs during the day. Despite their size, they are generally docile and are popular with divers and aquariums.