Who Might Be the Predator Targeting a Shark?

Researchers were astonished when a 2.5m (8ft) shark was devoured by a predator, sparking a mystery over the identity of the culprit. A team of scientists had been tracking a pregnant porbeagle shark, monitoring its movements from New England to Bermuda, only to discover it had met a grim fate.

Who Attacked and Killed the Porbeagle Shark?

In a first-of-its-kind discovery, evidence has emerged of a top-tier predator shark being killed by another predator, according to a study published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Marine Science. The research team, aimed to study the movement patterns of pregnant porbeagle sharks, a species endangered in many regions.

One of the porbeagle sharks being tracked had been under observation for five months before it was unexpectedly killed. The scientists believe the large, warm-blooded shark was likely attacked by another warm-blooded predator - possibly another shark.

To monitor the sharks, the researchers attached two types of tags. The first, a finmount tag, was placed on the shark's fin to provide precise geolocation data whenever the fin emerged from the water. The second tag, a pop-off satellite archival tag, recorded the shark's depth and the surrounding water temperature.

This second tag revealed the shark's demise, showing a sudden shift in temperature, indicating that the tag had entered the body of a warm-blooded animal. A similar incident occurred a year later with another porbeagle shark in the same area. This second shark's tag also transmitted from the ocean floor, suggesting it had met a similar fate.

The porbeagle shark, which had been tracked for several hundred miles, was last detected at depths between 499 and 1000m (1,640 and 3,280 feet), where the water temperature was relatively low. Suddenly, the temperature recorded by the tag spiked from 59 to 77°F (15 to 25 °C), a sign that the shark had been consumed by a warm-blooded creature.

Scientists ruled out the possibility of a mammal being the predator, as their body temperatures are generally much higher. He suggested the attacker was likely another lamnid shark, a group that includes porbeagles, white sharks, and mako sharks, with body temperatures typically ranging from 77 to 81°F (25 to 27°C).

A mako shark could have been the culprit.

The speculation is that the predator is likely a mako or a white shark, as these species are known to grow larger than porbeagles.

As highlighted in this intriguing study on predator-prey dynamics among sharks, the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures are profound. To support the protection and conservation of sharks, consider contributing to Shark Guardian, our dedicated charity. We rely on donations to fund vital research and conservation efforts. You can help by making a donation, becoming a member, or shopping for shark-themed merchandise. Every bit of support makes a difference in preserving these essential ocean predators. Donate, Become a Member, or buy your self a fabulous item in our Shop.