The Behavior of the Bonnethead Shark, Sphyrna tiburo

Behavioral activities of a colony of 10 bonnethead sharks, Sphyrna t. tiburo, held under semi-natural conditions, were examined over a period of six months. All sharks had attained, or were approaching, sexual maturity. Objectives of the study were to describe species-typical motor patterns and postures, to analyze the diurnality of patrolling activity and to characterize pattern(s) of organization underlying social interactions noted within the colony. Eighteen postures and patterns of movement were described, almost half of them having apparent social relevance. In specific instances, functional significance of a pattern was cautiously given. Patrolling activity appeared to have a diurnal rhythm, with a peak occurring in the late afternoon; smaller individuals were more erratic in their patrolling. Finally, a clear but subtle social organization, based on a straight-line, size-dependent, dominance hierarchy was found. Though position within the hierarchy was not determined by sex, data indicated that all individuals tended to shy away from larger males. Sexual differences in the performance of certain patterns of movement were also established.