The Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi) is a medium-sized, robust shark species native to the warm, shallow waters of the western Atlantic, particularly around coral reefs in the Caribbean Sea. Recognized for its streamlined body and distinctive dorsal fin, this shark plays a vital ecological role as an apex predator within reef ecosystems. While the Caribbean reef shark is not typically targeted by large-scale commercial fisheries, it is often caught incidentally as bycatch and is sought after in some regions for its meat, fins, and as a draw for dive tourism. The top countries involved in the harvesting of Caribbean reef sharks include The Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and Honduras. However, The Bahamas stands out for its significant conservation efforts, having established a shark sanctuary in 2011, which prohibits commercial shark fishing. In contrast, other nations in the region, such as Cuba and Jamaica, have fewer restrictions, and local fisheries may target reef sharks for domestic consumption or export. The ongoing demand for shark products and the popularity of shark-based ecotourism continue to shape the fishing industry and conservation policies in these Caribbean nations.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.