The lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris) is a medium-sized species of shark belonging to the family Carcharhinidae. It is aptly named for its distinct lemon-yellow coloring on its dorsal side, which fades to a pale yellow or white on the ventral side. This species can reach an average length of around 10 feet (3 meters) and weighs approximately 300-400 pounds (135-180 kilograms), although larger individuals have been recorded.
Lemon sharks are known for their robust build, with a broad, blunt snout and a powerful set of jaws containing rows of sharp teeth. They inhabit a wide range of coastal and estuarine waters in the western Atlantic Ocean, from the United States down to Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea. They are often found in shallow, warm waters near coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, but can also venture into deeper offshore waters.
These sharks are primarily carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey such as fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They are opportunistic hunters, often preying on weaker or injured animals. Lemon sharks are known for their relatively calm and non-aggressive behavior towards humans, making them a popular subject for scientific research and shark-diving tourism.
Lemon sharks are viviparous, meaning the embryos develop inside the female's body, and livebirth occurs after a gestation period of around 10-12 months. The reproduction process typically takes place in nursery areas, where the juveniles can find ample food and protection against larger predators.
Conservation-wise, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the lemon shark as a near-threatened species. They face various threats, including habitat loss, over
