Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY (Chiloscyllium plagiosum)

Fish in the family Hemiscylliidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY

Quick facts

Scientific nameChiloscyllium plagiosum
FamilyHemiscylliidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size32 in
Minimum tank size180 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-80°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding scheduleEvery 2-3 days

Appearance

The Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark is a slender, elongated shark with a flattened body and distinctive dark brown or black bands and reticulated patterns on a pale tan or yellowish background. It has characteristic barbels on its snout and a long, compressed tail.

Diet and feeding

Feed live or frozen small fish, crustaceans, and other meaty marine foods. In captivity, they readily accept frozen shrimp, small fish, and squid. Feed adults every 2–3 days; juveniles may require more frequent feeding.

Difficulty and care for the Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the coasts of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Philippines, and extending to northern Australia.

Log Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark EXPERT ONLY alongside everything else in your reef.