The Epaulette Shark: Raja Ampat’s Walking Sharks

Epaulette Shark by Jennifer Hayes

Epaulette sharks can be found in the shallow waters amongst the coral reefs and rocky outcrops off Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea at depths of 0-10 metres.

Here in Raja Ampat, the epaulette shark is a protected species under Indonesian law and is often referred to as Kalabia, Mandemor, or hiu berjalan in Indonesian, which translates to a walking shark.

According to the Save Our Seas Foundation survey, the epaulette shark can be found in seagrass meadows, corals, rocky outcrops, reef rubble patches, sandy fringes, and mangrove roots in Arborek and Yenbuba.

These walking sharks have been observed by the local villagers traveling close to the seashore due to the availability of clams and other food sources.

Why have epaulette sharks evolved to be able to “walk”? Scientists and marine experts have concluded that epaulette sharks walking is a survival instinct that has served them well. Some experts have even described the epaulette shark walking as “breaking all rules of survival”.

Why Do Epaulette Sharks Walk?

Often along the coastline, epaulette sharks inhabit shallow water pools that rise and fall with the tides. Sometimes, the epaulette shark may get caught in a small pool where oxygen levels are low and the sun’s rays are strong. 

The epaulette shark will then use its paddle-like pectoral and pelvic fins to “walk” back to safety across larger water pools.

To see this fascinating behavior in action, check out our latest Instagram video, showcasing the Epaulette shark's unique "walking" technique.

Slowing Heart Rate During Lack of Oxygen

In addition to being able to walk on land to escape from danger, epaulette sharks can tolerate a lack of oxygen for three hours without any ill effects by reducing their heart rate and breathing. This increases the blood supply to their brain, shutting down non-essential brain functions and ensures survival without oxygen for long periods.

No Fear Of Humans

Raja Ampat boasts numerous sightings of epaulette sharks, which are harmless towards humans but will swim or “walk” away if threatened.

If you ever come across an epaulette shark here in Raja Ampat, please do not touch it because it is likely to hurt both you and the shark – the teeth of an epaulette shark can be quite sharp and may bite when handled closely.

Tiny But Feisty

Most epaulette sharks are less than one meter long, slender-bodied with short heads, and wide paired fins. Many have brownish-yellow skin marked with dark spots, while others are just plain sandy-brown. The name “epaulette” comes from a big black spot surrounded by the white ring at the base of each pectoral fin that looks like military shoulder adornments.

They’re Related To The Wobbegong Shark

Epaulette sharks belong to a group of sharks known as carpet sharks, which include the wobbegong sharks. Both types have attractive patterns on their bodies and can blend into their surroundings, helping them camouflage when searching for food.

Epaulette Shark Teeth

It has been observed that crustaceans, worms as well as small spiny bony fish form the diet of epaulette sharks. Their teeth form a flat area when they close their jaws, allowing them to crush their prey’s hard shells. 

Epaulette sharks are easily spotted in many areas of Raja Ampat, both near the shores and deeper under the sea. People have also seen such sharks near jetties or shallow docks. However, this is not always the case.

Alternatively, you could try out a night dive with Papua Diving Resort, where our experienced divers will guide you during low tide to observe these creatures in their habitat.

Read more: How to Go to Raja Ampat