The scientific name of the tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier, also provides some insight into the origin of its name. The genus name "Galeocerdo" is derived from two Greek words: "galeos," meaning "shark," and "kerdos," meaning "gain" or "profit." This name likely refers to the tiger shark's opportunistic feeding behavior and its reputation as a voracious predator.
Tiger sharks are known for their wide-ranging diet and are often referred to as "garbage cans of the sea" due to their tendency to consume a variety of food items, including fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, birds, and even human-made debris. Their aggressive nature and diverse diet have contributed to their reputation as formidable predators in the marine environment.