Marbled Cat Shark

Also known as Coral Cat Shark, Marbled Catshark

The Marbled Cat Shark is a beautiful small shark species featuring intricate marbled brown and cream patterns across its body. This hardy, nocturnal bottom-dwelling shark is one of the most suitable species for large home aquariums. Relatively docile and manageable in size, this species is an excellent choice for experienced aquarists wanting to keep sharks. Its attractive pattern and fascinating behavior make it a prized addition to fish-only predator tanks.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium sp.
• Common Names: Marbled Catshark, Coral Cat Shark, Australian Marbled Cat Shark
• Adult Size: Up to 24-28 inches
• Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care
• Temperament: Docile; peaceful for a shark
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; predatory toward fish and invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 500 gallons strongly preferred
• Experience Level: Advanced; requires specialized care and systems

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires large tank with extensive open sand bed for resting. Provide caves, overhangs, and hiding spots. Smooth rockwork is essential to prevent abrasions. Strong water circulation but creates calm areas near the bottom. No sharp decorations or rough surfaces. Rounded interior corners preferred.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°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
• Sand substrate (fine to medium grain)

These maintain excellent water quality for this messy predator.

Diet & Feeding

Marbled Cat Sharks are carnivorous predators with hearty appetites.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Fresh or frozen whole fish (silversides, lance fish, smelt)
• Variety: Fresh shrimp (whole with shells), squid, scallops, clams, octopus
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched foods 2-3 times weekly
• Live Foods: Occasionally offered for enrichment (ghost shrimp, small crabs)

Feeding Frequency: 3-4 times weekly; large meals

Special Note: Nocturnal feeder; feed during evening or with lights off for best results. May not compete well with aggressive daytime feeders. Target feeding is often necessary.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Only with other large, non-aggressive fish too big to eat
• Predatory: Will eat any fish small enough to swallow
• Multiple Sharks: Can be kept with other small shark species in very large tanks
• Peaceful: Relatively docile; not aggressive toward large tankmates

Notes & Considerations

• One of the best shark species for advanced home aquariums.
• Beautiful intricate marbled pattern: brown and cream coloration.
• Each individual has unique pattern markings.
• Nocturnal; most active at night or during dim lighting.
• Hides during bright daylight hours; normal behavior.
• Bottom-dweller; rests on a sand bed during inactive periods.
• Harmless to humans; docile and manageable.
• May be shy initially but becomes bolder with time.
• Will eat any fish it can swallow whole.
• Cannot be housed with small fish, shrimp, or crabs.
• Sensitive to copper-based medications; avoid at all costs.
• No scales; skin can be easily damaged by rough surfaces.
• Requires smooth tank surfaces and decorations.
• Produces substantial waste; excellent filtration is mandatory.
• Creates ammonia spikes if overfed; feed appropriately.
• Can jump when startled; secure lid recommended.
• Sexually dimorphic: males have prominent claspers near pelvic fins.
• Oviparous (egg-laying); may lay eggs in aquariums.
• Egg cases (mermaid’s purses) may be found if a female is present.
• Native to coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region.
• Hardy once established; relatively disease-resistant.
• Long-lived; represents 10-15+ year commitment.
• Requires specialized care knowledge about shark husbandry.
• Legal restrictions in some areas; check local regulations.
• Not suitable for reef aquariums or community tanks.

Why Choose a Quarantined Marbled Cat Shark?

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