The Unlikely Duo: Octopus Hitchhikes on Mako Shark in New Zealand Waters
The ocean, a realm of perpetual mystery, continues to surprise us with its hidden wonders and unexpected encounters. In a scene straight out of a whimsical animated film, researchers in New Zealand have documented a truly bizarre and delightful interaction: an octopus riding on the back of a shortfin mako shark. This real-life "sharktopus" event, captured on camera, has sparked curiosity and amusement, highlighting the vast unknown that still lies beneath the waves.
The University of Auckland research team, led by Professor Rochelle Constantine of the School of Biological Sciences, made the astonishing discovery during a December 2023 expedition in the Hauraki Gulf, near Kawau Island. The team was engaged in an ongoing project to monitor the diverse marine life of the Gulf, with a particular focus on shark populations. Little did they know that their routine research would lead to the observation of an event so unusual it felt like something out of a dream.
The initial sighting was perplexing. From their vessel, the researchers observed a large, metallic grey dorsal fin slicing through the water, unmistakably belonging to a sizable shark, identified as a shortfin mako. However, an oddity caught their attention: an orange patch situated on the shark’s head. Initially, the team speculated whether it might be a discarded buoy, or perhaps an injury sustained by the shark. Driven by curiosity, they launched a drone and deployed a GoPro camera into the water to gain a closer look. What they witnessed was truly extraordinary: an octopus, perched confidently atop the shark’s head, clinging on with its tentacles.
Professor Constantine described the encounter as "unforgettable." The footage captured showcases the octopus firmly gripping the shark as it swam through the water. The video quickly went viral, captivating audiences with its sheer unexpectedness and playful undertones.
The encounter raises a plethora of questions, given the vastly different habitats and behaviors of these two creatures. Octopuses are primarily deep-sea dwellers, adapted to the pressures and darkness of the ocean floor. They are known for their intelligence, camouflage abilities, and solitary existence. Mako sharks, on the other hand, are apex predators that typically inhabit the upper layers of the ocean, closer to the surface. They are renowned for their speed and agility, being among the fastest shark species in the world, capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).
The incongruity of this pairing begs the question: how did this octopus end up on the back of a mako shark? Several theories have been proposed, though none can be definitively confirmed without further observation. One possibility is that the octopus was venturing closer to the surface in search of food, perhaps pursuing a potential meal when it encountered the shark. In a desperate attempt to escape predation, the octopus may have instinctively latched onto the shark’s back.
Another theory suggests that the octopus was already injured or weakened, and sought refuge on the shark as a means of survival. By clinging to the shark, the octopus could have gained protection from other predators and potentially access to food scraps. It is also conceivable that the octopus was simply engaging in exploratory behavior, driven by its natural curiosity and intelligence.
Unfortunately, the researchers were only able to track the dynamic duo for a brief ten-minute period, leaving the ultimate fate of the octopus and shark shrouded in mystery. It remains unknown whether the octopus eventually dismounted the shark voluntarily, or if it was dislodged by the shark’s movements. The possibility that the shark considered the octopus a meal and attempted to shake it off cannot be ruled out.
Regardless of the circumstances, the encounter serves as a captivating reminder of the countless secrets that the ocean holds. Professor Constantine emphasizes that the "sharktopus" sighting underscores the vast amount that remains unknown about the aquatic world. It also highlights the critical importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.
While sharks are often portrayed as terrifying creatures in popular media, Professor Constantine points out that they are far less dangerous to humans than humans are to them. Shark populations are facing severe threats due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. In contrast to their intimidating reputation, statistics reveal that unprovoked shark attacks are relatively rare. Last year, there were only 47 documented unprovoked shark attacks globally, with seven resulting in fatalities.
The "sharktopus" encounter is not only a source of amusement and wonder, but also a call to action. By supporting conservation initiatives, we can help ensure that such extraordinary moments continue to occur for generations to come. Protecting marine ecosystems is not only essential for the survival of these fascinating creatures, but also for the health of the planet as a whole.
"One of the best things about being a marine scientist is that you never know what you might see next in the sea," Professor Constantine concludes. The ocean is a treasure trove of biodiversity and mystery, and it is our responsibility to protect it. By fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the marine world, we can work towards a future where both sharks and octopuses, and all other marine life, can thrive in harmony. The story of the octopus and the shark reminds us that the ocean is a place of endless possibilities and that we must remain vigilant in our efforts to conserve its wonders.
