The University of Auckland shared a remarkable video of a Maori octopus riding atop a mako shark off the coast of New Zealand, showcasing a rare interaction between the two species.
In a fascinating display of marine behavior, scientists from the University of Auckland recently captured a rare sighting of an octopus riding on a shark off the coast of New Zealand. The encounter, which took place in December 2023, features a Maori octopus perched atop a mako shark, known for being the fastest shark species in the world, capable of swimming at speeds up to 46 mph.
According to the university, this unusual sighting was described as “one of the strangest things University of Auckland marine scientists had ever seen.” The researchers noted that octopuses typically inhabit the seabed, while shortfin mako sharks prefer shallower waters, making this interaction particularly intriguing.
The researchers were conducting a study on shark feeding frenzies in the Hauraki Gulf near Kawau Island when they spotted a mako shark with a distinctive orange patch on its head. To document the encounter, they deployed a drone and a GoPro camera into the water, leading to the unforgettable moment when the octopus was seen clinging to the shark’s head with its tentacles.
Professor Rochelle Constantine, a marine scientist at the University of Auckland, recounted the experience in a recent article for the university. She expressed her surprise at the sighting, stating, “At first, I was like, ‘Is it a buoy?’ Is it entangled in fishing gear or had a big bite?”
Constantine further elaborated on the calm nature of the scene, noting 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 remarked.
After observing the interaction for about ten minutes, the researchers decided to move on, leaving the fate of the “sharktopus” unknown. However, Constantine speculated that the octopus may have experienced quite the thrill, given the speed of the mako shark, which can reach up to 30 mph during its bursts of speed.
This rare sighting not only highlights the unique behaviors of these marine creatures but also underscores the importance of ongoing research in understanding the dynamics of ocean ecosystems. The footage serves as a reminder of the wonders that lie beneath the surface of our oceans and the surprising interactions that can occur between species.
The University of Auckland continues to conduct research in marine biology, aiming to uncover more about the behaviors and habitats of various marine species. This sighting of the octopus and shark is just one example of the unexpected encounters that can occur in the rich tapestry of ocean life.
According to The New York Times, the researchers’ findings contribute to a broader understanding of marine life interactions and the ecological significance of such relationships.