Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium punctatum

Common Name: Brownbanded Bamboo Shark

Species Group: Sharks

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Predatory

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Predator

Max Fish Length: 42 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 300 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific, from the Indian Ocean to northern Australia and Southeast Asia

Chiloscyllium Punctatum - The Brownbanded Bamboo Shark

Chiloscyllium Punctatum (The Brownbanded Bamboo Shark)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, frequently found in shallow coastal waters, seagrass beds, and sandy reef areas.
Characterized by its elongated body, barbels near its mouth, and dark bands across its light brown body.
A nocturnal species that remains inactive during the day and becomes more active at night.
Typically solitary but may occasionally be found resting near other sharks in the wild.
Best suited for large home aquariums with smooth substrates, plenty of hiding spots, and stable water conditions.

Carnivorous, primarily feeding on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish in its natural habitat.
Requires a diet rich in meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, clams, and small fish.
Adapts well to frozen and prepared foods but benefits from fresh seafood offerings.
Should be fed several small meals per week to prevent overfeeding and maintain proper digestion.
Calcium-rich foods help support skeletal health and strong jaw development.

Prefers shallow reef environments, sandy bottoms, and seagrass beds where it can rest and forage.
Frequently found in warm coastal waters, often hiding under ledges or within rocky structures.
Aquarium setups should include soft sand substrates to prevent injury to their delicate undersides.
Requires a well-oxygenated environment with moderate water flow.
Providing ample space for movement and suitable hiding areas reduces stress and promotes natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C) to maintain proper metabolic function.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires excellent filtration and frequent water changes to maintain high water quality.
Not reef-safe, as it may disturb corals and consume small invertebrates.
Providing a large, low-stress environment with minimal sharp objects prevents injury.

Generally peaceful but should be housed with fish that will not nip at its fins or stress it.
Compatible with large, non-aggressive fish such as groupers, tangs, and large angelfish.
Should not be housed with small fish or slow-moving invertebrates, as they may be seen as prey.
Best kept in a species-only tank or with similarly sized fish that respect its space.
Providing a sufficiently large environment minimizes stress and territorial behavior.

A slow-moving but curious species that enjoys exploring the tank at night.
Frequently observed resting on the sandy bottom or within rock crevices during the day.
Becomes more active in the evening, searching for food along the substrate.
May occasionally bury itself in the sand as a natural defense mechanism.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and approach for food during feeding sessions.