The rare sighting of an octopus riding a shark off the coast of New Zealand has captivated scientists and marine enthusiasts alike.
In a remarkable encounter captured on video, an octopus was seen riding atop a mako shark off the coast of New Zealand. This unusual sighting, shared by researchers from the University of Auckland, has been dubbed a “sharktopus.” The footage showcases a Maori octopus perched on the head of the world’s fastest shark, known for its ability to swim at speeds of up to 46 mph.
The incident occurred in December 2023 while university researchers were investigating shark feeding frenzies in the Hauraki Gulf, near Kawau Island. During their exploration, they encountered a mako shark distinguished by an “orange patch” on its head. To document the moment, the researchers deployed a drone and a GoPro camera into the water, leading to the unforgettable sight of the octopus clinging to the shark’s head with its tentacles.
Professor Rochelle Constantine, a marine scientist at the University of Auckland, described the sighting as one of the strangest experiences of her career. “It was a mysterious sight indeed,” she noted, emphasizing that octopuses typically dwell on the seabed, while short-fin mako sharks prefer shallower waters.
After observing the scene for approximately ten minutes, the researchers decided to move on, leaving the fate of the “sharktopus” uncertain. Constantine speculated that the octopus might have been in for quite an adventure, considering the speed at which mako sharks can swim. “The octopus may have been in for quite the experience, since the world’s fastest shark species can reach 30 mph,” she remarked.
Initially, Constantine was unsure of what she was witnessing. “At first, I was like, ‘Is it a buoy? Is it entangled in fishing gear or had a big bite?’” she recalled. However, she quickly realized that both the shark and the octopus appeared unbothered by the encounter. “The shark seemed quite happy, and the octopus seemed quite happy. It was a very calm scene,” she stated.
This rare interaction between two marine species has sparked interest and curiosity among scientists and the public alike, highlighting the wonders of ocean life and the unexpected behaviors of its inhabitants.
According to Fox News, the footage has not only provided a glimpse into the unique relationship between these two creatures but also serves as a reminder of the mysteries that still exist beneath the waves.
Source: Original article