The Brownbanded Bamboo Shark (Chiloscyllium punctatum) is a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its distinctive appearance and generally peaceful temperament. This tank-bred specimen ensures better adaptation to captive conditions and reduces wild collection impact.
Care Level: Moderate – suitable for aquarists with some experience in maintaining marine sharks.
Temperament: Generally peaceful and shy, this species coexists well with other non-aggressive tank mates. Avoid housing with very small fish that may be seen as prey.
Diet: Carnivorous – feeds on a variety of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and specialised shark pellets. Feeding should be done 2-3 times per week to maintain optimal health.
Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 180 litres (approximately 50 gallons) is recommended for juveniles, but large adults require tanks of at least 450 litres (120 gallons) to provide ample swimming space and a suitable environment.
Lighting Requirements: Standard marine aquarium lighting is sufficient. Avoid overly bright lighting as this species prefers dimmer environments.
Water Flow: Moderate water flow mimicking natural reef conditions is ideal. Ensure good water quality with stable parameters.
Placement: Provide plenty of hiding places such as caves and rockwork. The shark will spend much time resting on the substrate, so a sandy bottom is preferred to avoid injury.
Origin: Tank-bred in captivity, ensuring healthier specimens and supporting sustainable aquarium trade.
Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 90 cm (35 inches) in captivity.
This species is reef safe with caution, as it may prey on small invertebrates and fish. Careful selection of tank mates is advised.
