The tasselled wobbegong is a carpet shark of the Orectolobidae family that lives in shallow coral reefs along the coasts of northern Australia, New Guinea, and the surrounding islands. This species has a wide and flattened body and head, reaching a length of 1.8 m (5.9 ft). The most distinguishing feature is a fringe of branching dermal flaps that wrap over its head and extend across its chin, allowing it to blend in.
The carpet shark possesses exceptional camouflage abilities
According to reports, they attack humans as well, even when unprovoked.
During the day, they are usually found within caves or beneath ledges with their tail coiled up. When darkness falls, they become more active and seek their prey. According to some stories, they attack humans as well, even when unprovoked. It even “attacks and generally kills the indigenous” of Papua New Guinea, according to Australian researcher Gilbert Whitley in 1940.
