Not to be confused with the blacktip reef shark, the oceanic blacktip shark has a more stout, robust body, grows larger than its reef shark cousin, and prefers living in shallower open water areas rather than on a coral reef. Also, they do not have distinct black spots on their fin tips like the reef sharks but, instead, have more of a uniform black line along the edges of their fins. These animals are fast, agile, and energetic, especially when it comes to hunting. They have been known to make spinning leaps out of the water while attacking schools of fish.

They are common sharks in temperate, tropical, and subtropical waters worldwide. Their favorite habitats include muddy bays, reef drop-offs, and lagoons. They can actually tolerate a lower salinity level than most sharks which allows them to enter estuaries and mangrove environments. Have you ever dreamed of diving with the oceanic blacktip shark? If so, check out this map to explore all of the best dive locations around the world to encounter these powerful animals.