5 Most Common Sharks in the Maldives - Top 5 Shark Species Found Off the Coast of the Maldives

As one of the most commonly spotted shark species in the Maldives, divers may find that these curious creatures are most active during the nighttime. Known for their stout bodies and round-shaped noses, grey reef sharks can grow up to 2m in length in the wild. They are thus named due to the grey colour of the first dorsal fin although some are known to have two fins in the same colour. The best places to spot grey reef sharks in the Maldives include the Guraidhoo Corner and Rasdhoo Madivaru while other thilas and channels on the eastern fringes of the country are known to be inhabited by these creatures.

Reputed to be among the biggest and most intimidating fish species occupying the Maldives, whale sharks are mammoth in size and scale although they are relatively harmless when compared to other shark species. Feeding primarily on shrimp and plankton, whale sharks are most commonly found in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives. Whale shark species are famed for using the Maldives as a breeding ground and a nursery so there are many baby whale sharks as big as 6m long occupying the waters off the coast of the archipelago.

As one of the most frequently spotted shark varieties in the country, Blacktip reef sharks are part and parcel of nearly every scuba diving expedition in the Maldives. Growing up to be around 1.6m in length, Blacktip reef sharks can be easily distinguished from other fish species due to the dark hue of their fins. Occupying shallow waters and feeding on tiny marine life usually available in coral reefs, baby Blacktip reef sharks have been known to swim up to the beaches of the Maldives to the delight of tourists.

Travellers based at OZEN Life Maadhoo will find that scuba diving in search of leopard sharks is one of the best activities to do in Maldives. Famed for their stunning appearance, this shark variety is also dubbed zebra sharks due to the intricate patterns of stripes decorating their bodies. Known to be far more elusive than the other shark species on this list, Leopard sharks occupy deeper depths of the ocean floor and are known as bottom dwellers as a result. Those who dive up to 5 metres will likely spot these majestic mammals although they are known to live at depths of nearly 30m in certain areas.

As one of the least visible shark varieties in the Maldives, scalloped hammerheads can be a challenge unless one ventures down to the Rasdhoo Atoll. Dedicated tours are also available for those who wish to see scalloped hammerheads in the wild. As a carnivorous shark variety, scalloped hammerheads feed on other sharks unlike the other four species mentioned on this list.