ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark for Sale
The ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark (Pseudoginglymostoma brevicaudatum) is a small, docile, and nocturnal shark that grows up to 30 inches, making it the most compact member of the nurse shark family. Captive-bred by ORA, it’s designed for expert aquarists maintaining large, stable saltwater systems. This unique species lets serious marine keepers experience a true shark in a home environment without the space demands of larger species. ORA’s captive breeding ensures specimens are healthier, calmer, and less prone to disease than wild-caught counterparts.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pseudoginglymostoma brevicaudatum |
| Family | Ginglymostomatidae |
| Origin | Western Indian Ocean – coasts of Africa and Madagascar |
| Maximum Size | 30 inches (76 cm) |
| Purchase Size | 5 – 8 inches |
| Lifespan | Over 30 years in captivity |
| Care Level | Expert only |
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 gallons recommended (300 preferred) |
| Temperament | Docile but predatory to small fish |
| Reef Safe | No – may consume crustaceans and benthic fish |
| Diet | Carnivorous – shrimp, clam, and seafood mix |
| Temperature | 72 – 78 °F (22 – 26 °C) |
| pH Range | 8.0 – 8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.023 – 1.026 SG |
Appearance
This species has a dark brown body with a blunt head and elongated shape. Its short precaudal tail and lighter underside distinguish it from larger nurse shark relatives. Small spiracles behind the eyes allow it to breathe while resting on the substrate, a hallmark of bottom-dwelling nocturnal sharks.
Care & Requirements
The ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark thrives in large marine aquariums with fine sand substrate and excellent filtration. Maintain pristine water quality with ammonia and nitrite at zero, and nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-capacity protein skimmer to handle the species’ bioload. Provide moderate lighting, smooth décor, and open swimming areas. Feed a rotation of fresh shrimp, squid, and marine fish 2–3 times per week. These sharks rest motionless during the day and become active at night.
Is the Short-Tailed Nurse Shark reef safe?
No. It will consume small reef fish and invertebrates, so a fish-only system is best.
Can this shark be kept in pairs?
Only in systems exceeding 400 gallons, introduced as juveniles.
What signs of stress should I watch for?
Rapid gill movement or pacing along the glass indicates oxygen deficiency or poor water quality.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
Compatible with large, peaceful marine fish such as tangs, angels, and groupers that don’t occupy bottom space. Avoid aggressive species or other bottom-dwellers that could provoke conflict. Only house with other sharks in very large custom systems exceeding 400 gallons.
What fish can live with the ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark?
Large, calm species that ignore its resting areas.
Can I use invertebrates as a clean-up crew?
Not recommended—most will be eaten.
Do they show territorial behavior?
Minimal, though they may guard favorite resting zones.
Aquaculture / Availability
ORA is one of the few breeders successfully producing captive-bred Short-Tailed Nurse Sharks. Eggs require over five months to hatch, and juveniles readily accept prepared seafood diets. Captive-bred individuals are hardier and adapt quickly to aquarium environments. Due to slow breeding rates, ORA releases this species seasonally in limited quantities.
Are ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Sharks always captive-bred?
Yes—wild collection is extremely rare.
When are they available?
Usually in small seasonal batches throughout the year.
Why choose a captive-bred shark?
Captive-bred sharks adapt faster, carry fewer parasites, and support sustainable aquaculture.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
FAQ
How big does the ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark get in captivity?
Adults reach 24 to 30 inches. Growth depends on diet and space but rarely exceeds 30 inches in aquariums.
What tank size is best for a Short-Tailed Nurse Shark?
A 200-gallon minimum is required, though 300 gallons provides better stability and swimming room.
What does the ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Shark eat?
Offer fresh seafood such as shrimp, clams, and marine fish. Feed every 2–3 days depending on activity.
Are Short-Tailed Nurse Sharks active during the day?
They’re primarily nocturnal, resting by day and becoming active at night or early morning.
How long do they live?
With proper husbandry, this species exceeds 30 years in captivity.
Can they be kept with rays or other sharks?
Only in very large custom aquariums (400 gallons or more) with sufficient oxygen and open floor space.
Is this species difficult to keep?
Yes—recommended for advanced aquarists due to heavy bioload and maintenance needs.
What are the ideal water parameters?
72–78 °F, pH 8.0–8.4, salinity 1.023–1.026 SG, and nitrates below 20 ppm.
Do ORA Short-Tailed Nurse Sharks recognize their keepers?
They can become accustomed to feeding routines and react calmly to familiar caretakers.
| size | 6 inches |
|---|
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