Lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris)

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Distributed coastally within the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, including Gulf of Mexico

These sharks may enter fresh water but have not been found too far into river systems

Usually found around structures such as coral and mangrove systems

Gestation is 10-12 months, and females can give birth to 4-17 pups

Can reach sizes up to 12 feet, ages greater than 30 years, and maturity occurs at about 7.5 feet (12-13 years)

Localized consistent nursery areas, such as in Bimini, Bahamas, used by juveniles have allowed for extensive research of this species to be performed

Lemons have been targeted by both recreational and commercial fisheries, and fins fetch a very high price

This species is commonly held in aquariums, and also used extensively for research purposes

Will feed on fish, crustaceans, and mollusks

Reproduction mode is viviparous