I am hoping someone can help me identify the species that I saw while snorkling in Coki Point St Thomas. The shark was about 4 feet long, very narrow and had wrinkles on the top of his head. Almost looked like gills. Thanks for the help.
Hello. What you saw was almost certainly a remora, not a shark. These fish have a sucker (a modified fin) that they use to attach themselves to other larger fish such as Manta Rays and various shark species. The sucker is most likely the wrinkled feature you refer to. These fish get quite big, and resemble sharks in shape. They are also very common in the US and British Virgin Islands.
Looks like the man Dave has the Local Knowlege, i am allmost absolutely 100% a Remora that you saw. If the fins on the side are slightly triangular and upward facing then thats the beastie. Shame you cant say you saw a Shark, mind you who's to know.
And im sure as far as every one else is concerned it was eight foot of rippling muscle and teeth.