At hatching it is about 6 inches in length, and attains a maximum length of 41 inches. As a juvenile C. punctatum has an attractive color pattern of black and white or beige bands. These bands fade as the sharks mature, with adults having an overall dorsal and flank color of tan to light brown, with slightly darker brown bands. The second most common bamboo shark is C. plagiosum . It also is about 6 inches at hatching, and attains a maximum length of 37 inches.
Juveniles are usually satiny black with light spots.
As they grow older their base color lightens to dark or light brown. The epaulette shark is limited in distribution to Australia and New Guinea, and like other fish from this area it commands a high price when available. In my opinion, this is the best aquarium shark because it is hardy and quickly acclimates to captive life. You should choose an aquarium with as much surface area as possible because these sharks spend most time swimming near the bottom. The aquarium should have a limited amount of decor, although suitable hiding places in which they can refuge during the day should be provided.