Sharks patrol the waters above and around the reef. Some sharks, like this Caribbean Reef Shark, are fast enough to catch the reef fishes that can maneuver and hide in the reef quickly. Many types of larger and dangerous sharks aren't fast enough to catch reef fishes, and are seldom seen near tropical coral reefs. Many species of sharks are similar, and often are hard to tell apart. Note the black tips on the undersides of this shark's pectoral fins.
Sharks are fairly intelligent, and have been compared to dogs or cats.
Like dogs, sharks can learn from their experiences and often travel in packs. But also like dogs, sharks will bite if you pull their tails. I think that is odd, but it happens nearly every year. We must respect sharks for their speed and beauty, and remember that wild animals should be left alone. This Caribbean Reef Shark was 5 feet long.