The Brownbanded Bamboo Shark (Chiloscyllium plagiosum) is a small, bottom-dwelling shark native to the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its distinctive brown bands and peaceful temperament, it is a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts seeking a unique and manageable shark species.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. This species requires stable water conditions and a suitably large tank.
Temperament: Generally peaceful and shy, making it compatible with non-aggressive tank mates.
Diet: Carnivorous. Feed a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and specialised shark pellets to ensure optimal health.
Minimum Tank Size: At least 180 litres (approximately 50 gallons) for juveniles, with larger tanks recommended as the shark grows.
Lighting Requirements: Standard marine aquarium lighting is sufficient; avoid overly bright conditions to reduce stress.
Water Flow: Moderate water flow mimicking natural reef environments is ideal.
Placement: Provide a sandy substrate with plenty of hiding spots such as caves and PVC pipes to replicate natural shelter.
Origin: Indo-Pacific region.
Maximum Size: Up to 90 cm (35 inches) in captivity, though smaller sizes are common in aquarium settings.
Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are essential to maintain health. Avoid housing with aggressive or very small fish that may be seen as prey. This species is not reef safe as it may disturb invertebrates and small fish.
