The black tip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) have a predilection for shallow waters, up to 0.9ft (30cm) where they can be observed patrolling the lagoons of the atolls or the broken line of the waves. Rather shy, they bite easily and become potentially dangerous when they are excited in particular by divers or fishermen transporting fish. They are responsible for numerous non-fatal bites on the ankles and calves of low water bathers mistaken with their usual preys.