Species profile
Pelagic Thresher
Slender thresher shark with the famously whip-long upper tail lobe. The pelagic thresher is one of the sharks often called a fox shark.
Alopias pelagicus
Overview
The pelagic thresher is one of the thresher sharks often called a fox shark in everyday use. Its key field mark is the same one that defines the group: an extraordinarily long upper tail lobe that can be nearly as striking as the rest of the body.
In this guide it is recorded from western Indian Ocean waters around Somalia and Madagascar. Recorded maximum length: 3.8 m.
Because regional records can be patchy, tail shape and open-water habit are the most reliable cues.
Common namePelagic thresher
Scientific nameAlopias pelagicus
FamilyAlopiidae
OrderLamniformes
Max length3.8 m
RegionFederal Republic of Somalia, Somali EEZ, Madagascar
How to recognize it
Start with the tail. A slender body, pointed snout, and whip-like upper caudal lobe are the fastest clues.
Range and habitat
western Indian Ocean waters around Somalia and Madagascar.
Field note
Because regional records can be patchy, tail shape and open-water habit are the most reliable cues.
Related shark pages
Use these nearby pages to compare body plans, habitat, and species that are often learned together.
Common Thresher
Uses a whip-like tail to stun fish schools.
6.0 mVulnerable
Shortfin Mako
One of the ocean’s fastest sharks.
4.0 mEndangered
Blue Shark
Pelagic cruiser with a strong blue-gray silhouette.
3.8 mNear Threatened