The zebra shark is a large, unique species that inhabits shallow coral reefs in tropical waters, where it can squeeze into tight crevices and caves to hunt for food. Its appearance, which evolves as it matures, often leads to confusion among divers, who frequently mistake it for the leopard shark. Born with dark brown bodies and yellowish stripes, zebra sharks gradually lose their stripes as they grow, developing small black spots on a tan background, which gives them a striking resemblance to the leopard shark.

Zebra sharks are nocturnal hunters, foraging for small fish, snails, sea urchins, crabs, and other tiny invertebrates that hide in crevices. Despite not having the fearsome appearance like their toothy relatives, their bodies are perfectly designed for capturing prey. The barbels, or whisker-like organs on the front of their snouts, help them detect food, while their flexible bodies allow them to manoeuvre into tight spaces where small fish often take refuge. With small mouths and strong gill muscles, zebra sharks can easily suck in their prey in a single gulp. By day, they rest on the ocean floor, facing into the current to efficiently pump water over their gills for breathing while remaining still. When the current is strong enough, these slow-moving sharks have been seen "surfing," adjusting their fins to stay stationary in open water.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to 3 Spotted Leopard sharks (Zebra sharks) Lady Lancelot and her parthenogenetically produced offspring Luna, as well as Gemini.