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Shark Sex -
Bamboo and Epaulette Sharks (Hemiscylliidae)

The brownbanded bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium punctatum)is one of several members of this family that have been observed mating in captivity. A juvenile individual is shown here. Photo by Scott W. Michael

In this Feature Article we will look at what is known about the reproductive behavior of the bamboo and epaulette sharks. Because these sharks are well-suited to captivity, more is known about there courtship and copulation than any other family of sharks. Not only does this article include detailed information on their sexual behavior, it also includes illustrations and photos documenting mating behavior in these reef-dwellers. There is also information on egg laying behavior and incubation periods for several species.