The spotted wobbegong commonly measures between 5 and 6 feet in length, with the largest individuals reaching a maximum length of about 10.5 feet. Like the tasselled wobbegong, its head is broad, flattened and fringed with numerous fleshy skin lobes, some of which are branched, although they are much less abundant !

The spotted wobbegong has a darker and less contrasting coloration than most other wobbegongs. Its overall color is brown, with patches ranging from lighter yellowish-green areas to darker brown regions. The spotted wobbegong is distinguished by numerous spots surrounded by an irregular whitish border covering its entire body. A closer look reveals that each whitish border is actually made up of many tiny adjoining spots !

The spotted wobbegong is often confused with the banded wobbegong (Orectolobus halei) and the dwarf spotted wobbegong (Orectolobus parvimaculatus), a species only recently described in 2008 that differs mainly by its smaller adult size.

The spotted wobbegong has two dorsal fins set far back on the body, very large pectoral fins, and an anal fin.

The spotted wobbegong inhabits the shallow waters of the eastern Indian Ocean, particularly along the southern coast of Australia, from New South Wales in the east to Western Australia in the west.

The spotted wobbegong is believed to be a wobbegong species endemic to Australia.

The spotted wobbegong is found in shallow coastal waters and around coral reefs, where it spends most of its time resting on the bottom in rocky crevices or beneath rocky or coral overhangs.

The spotted wobbegong is a nocturnal shark that feeds at night and rests on the bottom during the day. It preys on a wide variety of animals that venture too close. Relying on its remarkable camouflage, it blends perfectly into its surroundings and patiently waits for unsuspecting prey to pass within striking distance before rapidly engulfing it.

The spotted wobbegong is ovoviviparous. At birth, young pups measure about 8 inches in length.

Thanks to the series of symmetrical patterns covering its body like the designs of a carpet, the spotted wobbegong, like all other wobbegongs, blends remarkably well into its surroundings ! The difference lies in the carpet-like patterns, which vary from one species to another and are one of their distinguishing characteristics.

The spotted wobbegong has been listed on the IUCN Red List since 2003. It is currently classified as Near Threatened !

As with nurse sharks, if you encounter a spotted wobbegong, approach it slowly but do not get too close. Always leave it a clear escape route so it can swim away without becoming defensive if it feels cornered !