Scientific name Stegostoma tigrinum
The Leopard Shark — more accurately known as the Zebra Shark — is one of the most iconic and photogenic sharks found around Koh Tao. Adults are easily recognised by their creamy-yellow bodies covered in dark leopard-like spots, while juveniles display bold zebra stripes (which is where the confusion in names comes from).
These beautiful, slow-moving sharks are commonly found resting on sandy seabeds or tucked beneath coral ledges between 5–30 metres. Around Koh Tao, they’re often spotted at sites like Southwest Pinnacle, Shark Island and White Rock, usually lying calmly on the sand during the day.
Leopard Sharks are bottom-dwellers with long, slender bodies and distinctive ridges running along their backs. Despite growing up to 2.5 metres in length, they are completely harmless to divers and are known for their relaxed temperament.
They rely on stealth and patience rather than speed, using their strong jaws to crush prey hiding in sand and reef crevices.
Approach slowly and stay low — avoid swimming directly over the shark.
Control your buoyancy carefully to prevent stirring up sand.
Early morning dives increase your chances of seeing them resting out in the open.
Leopard Sharks feed mainly on crustaceans, molluscs, small fish and benthic invertebrates.
Using electroreception and a keen sense of smell, they locate prey hidden beneath the sand — making them an important predator in Koh Tao’s sandy reef ecosystems.
