1. Fish: Sand tiger sharks are known to prey on various species of fish, including bony fish such as mackerels, tuna, jacks, and various other smaller reef fish. They have also been known to feed on cartilaginous fish like rays and smaller sharks.
2. Cephalopods: Sand tiger sharks are effective hunters of cephalopods, such as squid and octopus. These soft-bodied invertebrates provide a significant source of protein in their diet.
3. Crustaceans: These sharks also prey on crustaceans like crabs and lobsters, which are often found near the sandy bottoms where sand tiger sharks are commonly found.
4. Marine mammals: Larger sand tiger sharks may occasionally hunt and consume marine mammals, such as seals, sea lions, and dolphins. However, marine mammals generally make up a small part of their diet.
5. Sea turtles: Sand tiger sharks have been known to prey on sea turtles, including loggerheads and greens. They can crush the hard turtle shells with their powerful jaws to access the nutritious flesh inside.
6. Carrion: Like other sharks, sand tiger sharks are also known to scavenge on dead fish and other organic material. They play an essential role in the marine ecosystem as scavengers, ensuring the decomposition and recycling of nutrients.
It's important to note that the diet of sand tiger sharks can vary based on their age, size, and the local prey availability in their specific habitat.