Dive sites1
Marine life profile
Nurse sharks
Recorded at 1 dive sitesWhere divers encounter it
Explore Nurse sharks around the world
The Ginglymostomatidae are a cosmopolitan family of carpet sharks known as nurse sharks, containing four species in three genera. Usually purposeful and energy-efficient, it patrols reef edges or open water and changes course when given space.
Countries1
Animal groupSharks
Safety profilePotentially Dangerous
Meet the species
What to look for
How to Recognize It
Look for a streamlined shark profile, visible gill slits and the fin shape or markings that distinguish this species.
How It Behaves
Usually purposeful and energy-efficient, it patrols reef edges or open water and changes course when given space.
Special Ability
Highly tuned senses help it read vibration, scent and tiny electrical signals hidden in the water.
Dive responsibly
Share the water well
How to Approach
Stay calm, keep the animal in view and let it choose the distance. Never chase, surround or block its route.
Safety
Treat every shark as a powerful wild animal. Keep hands close, avoid baited activity and follow the local guide's instructions.
Worth knowing
The detail you remember
Interesting Facts
Common in shallow, tropical, and subtropical waters, these sharks are sluggish and docile bottom dwellers.
Where to Find
Look along reef drop-offs, channels, sandy ledges and blue-water edges where currents concentrate food.
Known countries
Panama
Sightings map
Nurse sharks locations
Plan a dive
Dive sites with reported encounters
Bouy Line
Panama
There is a beautiful sunken Trimaran next to a reef with healthy corals and sponges. You can see nurse sharks, rays, moray eels and the most varied reef fish.