Grey Bamboo Shark

Also known as Brownbanded Bamboo Shark, Grey Carpet Shark

The Grey Bamboo Shark is one of the most popular and suitable shark species for large home aquariums, featuring a brownish-grey body with subtle darker banding. This hardy, docile bottom-dwelling shark is an excellent choice for experienced aquarists wanting to keep sharks. Relatively small, peaceful, and manageable, this species exhibits fascinating behavior and adapts well to captivity when provided appropriate conditions.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium griseum
• Common Names: Grey Bamboo Shark, Brownbanded Bamboo Shark
• Adult Size: Up to 30-35 inches
• Lifespan: 15-20+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Docile; very peaceful
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; predatory
• Minimum Tank Size: 300 gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Advanced; requires specialized shark care

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires large tank with extensive open sand bed for resting and nocturnal foraging. Provide caves, overhangs, and hiding spots with smooth surfaces. Strong water circulation but calm areas near the bottom. No sharp decorations. Smooth rockwork is essential.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Salinity: 1.023-1.026
• pH: 8.0-8.4
• Pristine water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• High-capacity filtration system (heavy bioload)
• Large protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation (4,000+ GPH)
• UV sterilization recommended
• Fine to medium sand substrate

These maintain excellent water quality for this messy predator.

Diet & Feeding

Grey Bamboo Sharks are carnivorous bottom-feeding predators.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Fresh or frozen whole fish (silversides, lance fish, smelt)
• Variety: Fresh shrimp (whole), squid, scallops, clams, mussels
• Live Foods: Ghost shrimp, small crabs (occasional enrichment)
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched foods 2-3 times weekly

Feeding Frequency: 3-4 times weekly; substantial meals

Special Note: Nocturnal feeder; best fed during evening or with lights dimmed. May need target feeding if housed with aggressive daytime feeders. Uses barbels to locate food by smell/touch.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Only with large fish too big to swallow
• Very Peaceful: One of the most docile shark species available
• Multiple Sharks: Can be kept with other peaceful shark species in large tanks
• Predatory: Will eat any fish small enough to consume

Notes & Considerations

• One of the best shark species for advanced home aquariums.
• Brownish-grey coloration with subtle darker bands (bands fade with age).
• Very docile and harmless to humans; can be handled carefully.
• Bottom-dwelling; rests on a sand bed during inactive periods.
• Primarily nocturnal; most active at night or during dim lighting.
• Uses sensitive barbels near the mouth to locate food in sand.
• Often “walks” on pectoral fins along the tank bottom.
• Fascinating behavior; constantly explores substrate for food.
• Hardy and adapts well to aquarium life.
• Will eat any fish it can swallow whole.
• Cannot be housed with small fish, shrimp, or crabs.
• Very sensitive to copper-based medications; never use copper.
• Skin lacks scales; easily damaged by rough surfaces.
• Requires smooth decorations and rounded tank edges.
• Produces substantial waste; excellent filtration is mandatory.
• Overfeeding causes ammonia spikes; feed appropriately.
• Can jump or crawl out during maintenance; use caution.
• Secure lid recommended to prevent escape attempts.
• Oviparous (egg-laying); may lay eggs in aquariums.
• Egg cases (mermaid’s purses) have a distinctive rectangular shape.
• Eggs take 3-4 months to hatch if fertile.
• Males have prominent claspers; easy to sex.
• Native to the Indo-Pacific region.
• One of the hardiest shark species in captivity.
• Long-lived; 15-20+ year commitment.
• Legal restrictions possible; check local regulations.
• Requires advanced knowledge of shark husbandry.
• Not suitable for reef or community tanks.
• Excellent beginner shark for those with appropriate systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Grey Bamboo Shark?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, properly acclimated shark. All specimens are carefully observed, treated appropriately (without copper), and trained to accept varied prepared foods before sale. Proper quarantine is critical for sharks due to sensitivity to stress and disease. This provides the strongest foundation for long-term success with this popular and manageable species.