Nurse shark Care Guide

The Nurse Shark is a large, nocturnal bottom-dweller best known for its docile temperament and distinctive barbels. While they are fascinating creatures, they are not suitable for home aquariums and are typically housed only in public aquariums or research facilities due to their size, environmental needs, and long lifespan.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75,000 – 100,000 litres (recommended for juveniles; adults may need even more).
• Tank Type: Custom-built systems with extremely powerful filtration and open swimming space.
• Water Temperature: 22–28°C.
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4 (stable marine parameters).
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 specific gravity.
• Substrate: Soft, sandy substrate to protect their ventral skin.
• Decor: Minimal sharp objects; caves or overhangs for shelter.

Diet

Nurse sharks are opportunistic carnivores and require a diverse, meaty diet. Their feeding regimen should be closely monitored to avoid obesity, a common issue in captivity.

• Diet Includes: Squid, shrimp, fish fillets, crustaceans, and clams.
• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times per week for adults; juveniles may need more frequent feeding.
• Feeding Tips: Use feeding tongs or targeted delivery to prevent food waste and aggression from tank mates.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

• Temperament: Generally docile and slow-moving but can become aggressive if provoked or housed inappropriately.
• Activity: Nocturnal—more active at night and may spend daylight hours resting.
• Tank Mates: Only suitable with other large, robust marine species in very large systems. Avoid aggressive sharks or small fish that can be mistaken for food.

Health and Husbandry

• Common Issues: Skin abrasions from rough substrates, nutritional deficiencies, and poor water quality stress.
• Water Quality: Extremely high water quality is essential; requires redundant filtration systems and protein skimmers.
• Handling: Never handle unless trained. Their strength and powerful suction bite can cause serious injury.

Ethics and Considerations

Keeping a nurse shark is an expert-level commitment:

• Space Needs: They grow over 3 metres in length and live for over 25 years.
• Specialist Care: Requires access to veterinary care experienced in elasmobranchs.
• Legal Restrictions: Check regional legislation—ownership may be restricted or require special permits.