ORA Speckled Carpet Shark Captive Bred

ORA Speckled Carpet Shark Captive Bred for Sale

The ORA Speckled Carpet Shark (Hemiscyllium trispeculare) is a captive-bred saltwater shark designed for advanced marine aquarists who value sustainability and long-term aquarium success. Reaching up to 2.5 feet in length, this nocturnal bottom-dweller features a tan body patterned with dark speckles and broad saddle markings. Captive-bred through ORA’s respected aquaculture program, these sharks are aquarium-acclimated, reliable feeders, and ship with minimal stress. With extremely limited seasonal release, secure yours early to avoid sellouts.

Key Facts

Appearance

The ORA Speckled Carpet Shark has a tan-to-brown body covered with fine speckles and dark saddle blotches. Its long, slender form and paired pectoral fins allow it to “walk” along the aquarium floor, resembling an Epaulette Shark in movement and shape.

Care & Requirements

A minimum 200-gallon aquarium is essential, with wide floor space and a fine sandy substrate to protect the shark’s abdomen. Maintain moderate flow, salinity between 1.020–1.025, and temperature near 25°C. Provide hiding areas and stable parameters to prevent stress. Feed a carnivorous diet of squid, shrimp, mysis, or silversides three times per week, ideally at dusk when the shark is naturally active.

• How often should I feed an ORA Speckled Carpet Shark?
  Feed three times per week in small portions at dusk.
• Can this shark be kept in a reef tank?
  No, it may consume small invertebrates and fish.
• What substrate should I use?
  Fine marine sand is recommended to avoid skin abrasions.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

Ideal companions are large, peaceful marine fish that cannot fit in the shark’s mouth, such as tangs, angelfish, and groupers. Avoid triggers, puffers, or small species that may become prey. House only one shark unless using a system over 500 gallons with multiple shelters.

• Can two Speckled Carpet Sharks live together?
  Only in aquariums over 500 gallons with separate hiding spaces.
• Which fish are safe companions?
  Larger tangs, groupers, and angelfish that won’t compete for food.
• What should be avoided?
  Aggressive or nipping fish and any species small enough to be eaten.

Aquaculture/Availability

The ORA Speckled Carpet Shark Captive Bred is consistently aquacultured through ORA’s sustainable breeding program. Captive-bred sharks adapt quickly to aquarium life and feed more reliably than wild-caught specimens. Stock is extremely limited due to ORA’s controlled production schedule.

• Are ORA sharks always captive bred?
  Yes, all specimens are bred and raised by ORA.
• When are they usually available?
  Limited releases occur seasonally throughout the year.
• Why choose captive-bred sharks?
  They adapt better to aquariums and support responsible marine trade.

FAQ

What size tank does an ORA Speckled Carpet Shark need?
At least 200 gallons with broad floor area; larger tanks provide greater stability and comfort.

How large will this shark grow?
Captive-bred specimens typically reach about 30 inches, slightly smaller than wild individuals.

What should I feed it?
Offer a mix of squid, shrimp, krill, mysis, and silversides enriched with vitamins for balanced nutrition.

How long does it live?
Up to 25 years in captivity when maintained with proper diet and stable water conditions.

Is it aggressive?
Usually calm but opportunistic—it may eat small tankmates that fit in its mouth.

Does it jump?
Rarely, but use a secure lid to prevent accidents during nocturnal activity.

What are signs of stress?
Rapid gill movement, pacing during daylight, or food refusal may signal poor water conditions.

Can it live with corals?
Not ideal; movement across the sand can disturb or damage corals.

How do captive-bred sharks differ from wild ones?
They adapt faster, handle shipping stress better, and accept prepared foods more readily.

When do they reach maturity?
Around two years of age, depending on diet, water quality, and tank size.