Common Thresher Shark (Alopias vulpinus)

The Common Thresher or Alopias vulpinus is a species shark that can reach 20' (6m) in length and can weigh over 1000lbs! Nearly half of its length comes from its long caudal fin or tail. This long tail is a trait shared by other species in the family Alopiidae. Common Threshers are found in tropical and temperate climates throughout the world, but due to their slow reproduction rate and overfishing this species is close to becoming endangered. These fish have be reported from the surface waters all the way down to 1,800ft (550m) deep! They go by many different names including the Atlantic Thresher, Thintail Thresher, Thrasher, Fox Shark, Grayfish, Green Thresher, Sea Fox, Slasher, Swiveltail, Thresher Shark and Whip-Tailed Shark.  You can check out this shark underwater in the video below... 

The Common Thresher is the largest of the Threshers Sharks which get their names from the thrashing motion that they use to stunt their prey. These saltwater fish are often confused with their close cousin the Pelagic Thresher Shark, but can be differentiated by their bellies. The Common Thresher has the white on its belly that extends in a band over the bases of its pectoral fins.

These fish are fast and have the ability to leap entirely out of the water much like the dangerous Great White Shark. They feed on small schooling fish like Mackerel and Herring. Common Thresher Sharks are not considered to be dangerous to humans.

If you have any additional information or questions about the Common Thresher Shark let us know.