Tasselled Wobbegong

While it lies still, the Tasselled Wobbegong looks like a seaweed-covered rock, which is exactly its objective. It is one of a group of flattened, bottom-living sharks that are masters of camouflage, The squaspashed shape and broad, paired fins are further adaptations to an existence on the ocean floor. This species has a beautiful reticulated pattern of narrow, dark lines aganist a paler background. Around its mouth is a fringe of skin flaps that resemble weeds. During the day, it rests unseen under overhangs and ledges on coral reefs. At night, it emerges onto the reef to find a good vantage point from which to snap up passing fish. There is no escape from the gape of its huge jaws and its needle-like teeth for any fish straying near, as the Tasselled Wobbegong lunges up and grabs its prey. This species has been reported to bite divers who disturb it. Reef destruction and overfishing have reduced its numbers.

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