The University of Auckland scientists recently captured a rare video of an octopus riding on a shark off the coast of New Zealand, showcasing an unusual marine encounter.
Marine scientists from the University of Auckland recently shared an extraordinary sighting captured off the coast of New Zealand: an octopus riding on the back of a shark. This rare phenomenon, humorously dubbed a “sharktopus,” features a Maori octopus perched atop a mako shark, known for being the fastest shark species in the world, capable of swimming up to 46 miles per hour.
The encounter took place in December 2023 while researchers were investigating shark feeding frenzies in the Hauraki Gulf near Kawau Island. During their observations, they spotted a mako shark with a distinctive “orange patch” on its head. Curious about the unusual sight, the researchers deployed a drone and submerged a GoPro camera into the water, leading to an unforgettable discovery: an octopus clinging to the shark’s head with its tentacles.
Professor Rochelle Constantine, a marine scientist at the University of Auckland, described the moment in a recent article for the university. She noted that the sighting was one of the strangest experiences the team had encountered. “It was a mysterious sight indeed,” she remarked, emphasizing the unusual nature of the interaction, as octopuses typically dwell on the seabed while short-fin mako sharks prefer shallower waters.
After observing the scene for about ten minutes, the researchers decided to move on, leaving the fate of the “sharktopus” uncertain. Constantine speculated that the octopus might have had quite the adventure, given that the mako shark can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. “At first, I was like, ‘Is it a buoy?’” she recalled, reflecting on her initial thoughts when she first saw the unusual pairing. “Is it entangled in fishing gear or had a big bite?”
Despite her initial concerns, Constantine noted 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 said, highlighting the serene nature of this remarkable interaction.
This rare sighting not only captivates marine enthusiasts but also raises questions about the behaviors and interactions of these two fascinating species. The video serves as a reminder of the wonders of marine life and the unexpected moments that can occur in the ocean.
As scientists continue to study marine ecosystems, such encounters provide valuable insights into the behaviors and relationships among different species. The “sharktopus” sighting is a testament to the intriguing dynamics of ocean life, encouraging further exploration and understanding of these remarkable creatures.
According to Source Name, the footage has sparked interest among marine biologists and the general public alike, showcasing the beauty and unpredictability of marine environments.
Source: Original article