The silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) is a pelagic shark species with a very slender body and a pointed snout. Bronze in color with bluish-gray reflections, the silky shark averages about 10 feet in length.

The silky shark is a migratory species widely distributed around the world in the warm tropical waters of seas and oceans. It can be found near the reefs of French Polynesia including the Society islands, the Tuamotu archipelago, the Gambiers, the Marquesas and the Australs.

Silky sharks are generally found from the surface down to about 165 feet but they also venture as deep as 1,640 feet. This pelagic shark inhabits open ocean waters but can also be found near coasts with deep waters nearby.

The silky shark primarily feeds on pelagic fish like tuna, jacks as well as rays and cephalopods.

Silky sharks are viviparous with females giving birth to up to ten baby sharks after a one-year gestation period.

The silky shark is listed as many other marine species within The IUCN Red List of threatened species. The silky shark appears in the IUCN Red List since 2021 within the category Vulnerable !

Active both day and night, the silky shark is bold and curious, often approaching divers with great interest. So keep your eyes open, stay calm and always prioritize safety !