How can I get a pet shark?

1. 0

   Ari Lamsteinposted 12 years ago

   How can I get a pet shark?
   
   After watching the movie "Jaws" my 3 year old son is now obsessed with getting a pet shark.  I tried to explain that sharks are wild animals and dangerous but he doesn't seem to care.  I like to think that I'm a good parent, and that I provide for my child.  So I'd like to get him a pet shark, and let him learn for himself about the dangers of wild animals.  I've searched everywhere on Google for information about this, but can't seem to find it.  Can someone point me towards resources on how to get a pet shark, as well as what's involved with taking care of one?  Thanks.
   
   

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2. 82

   Melissa A Smithposted 12 years ago

   Not all sharks are dangerous. This appears to be a joke but there are many smaller sharks suitable for very large aquariums (about 200-2000 gallons). Unfortunately it's not uncommon for people to sell shark species that get too large for even the biggest home aquarium (such as nurse and black tip reef sharks) and really should just be maintained by professional facilities. Smaller shark species (saltwater) kept in home aquariums are: Chiloscyllium punctatum (bamboo shark), Heterodontus portusjacksoni (port jackson shark), Hemiscyllium ocellatum  (Epaulette shark) and several species of stingrays. They are not for beginners. The shark you have pictured has never been successfully raised in captivity.

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   1. 0

      Ari Lamsteinposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      Incredible answer to what was essentially a joke question

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   2. 82

      Melissa A Smithposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you. Not many people know about the variety of exotic animals people keep, but perhaps that's for the best :]

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      ezhangposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      This is a great answer! I think that this information would go very well in a hub about sharks.

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   4. 82

      Melissa A Smithposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      Yeah, wish I actually had some experience with one. Anyway, I didn't actually answer the question; you can get sharks online. One (expensive) store I visited used to have some large ones (including a black tip) but now they just have babies and eggs.

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3. 73

   purnimamoh1982posted 12 years ago

   One may get some more information here at http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/sharkfi … harks.php/ However, I appreciate Melissa A Smith's answer which is really comprehensive.

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      Melissa A Smithposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      Great link

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4. 77

   anasshadposted 12 years ago

   Get one from the fish market. But you will not be able to take it for a walk in the park. LOL!!!

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5. 59

   Rene Castleposted 12 years ago

   The best way to keep your child happy is go to a large pet store, such as Petco.
   Tell the salesperson you want a Blue Fined Shark. They require a little bit more care
   than Gold Fish, but are a very beautiful fish. Good Luck. Rene
   [just read it was a joke question. Get one anyway, they are beautiful and fish help with depression].

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6. 65

   Rosana Modugnoposted 12 years ago

   Have you visited Sharks R Us?  I believe they are in Sydney.  Although I have seen some here in Florida.  Word of caution:  They don't like cats.

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