Gray Reef Shark

The GRAY REEF SHARK (called mano) is a gray shark on its back and sides, and lighter below.  The dusky margin on the tail helps to distinguish them from the Galapagos Shark.  They are territorial sharks and act aggressively toward intruders, although they rarely bother divers. However, they show signs of upcoming attack if they hump their back, raise their head and drop their pectoral fins.  So fight the urge to take photos of these sharks if you see those signs, especially if your camera has a flash.  Instead, slowly and calmly withdraw, never taking your eyes off the shark.  

Although these sharks are common in the Indo-Pacific, they're not commonly seen in the Hawaiian Islands except around Molokini, off Mauai, and around Niihau.  Around Hawaii, most mating and pupping occurs between March and July, and the gestation is 12 months.  

Come dive with us and try to find one of these gray reef sharks and admire from a safe distance!!