The Mediterranean Sea is home to many of the world’s most beautiful marine creatures, including dolphins, turtles, jellyfish and various types of fish. But what about sharks? Is there any chance that the great predator of the deep could be living in the Mediterranean?
Recent studies suggest that there are indeed a few species of sharks that can be found in the Mediterranean. The most common species of shark seen in the Mediterranean is the Carcharhinus longimanus, also known as the long-finned Mako shark. This type of shark is found in the eastern part of the Mediterranean and it is relatively uncommon in the western part of the sea. Other species of sharks that can be found in the sea include the blue shark, which is the second most commonly spotted shark in the region, and the Great white shark, which is often sighted in the waters off the coast of Spain and Portugal.
In terms of habitat, the Mediterranean Sea is considered to be one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, with an abundance of food sources and a wide range of habitats suitable for sharks. In particular, the sea is warm and relatively shallow with a number of coves, inlets and bays that provide the perfect refuge for these creatures.
Despite the abundance of suitable habitats for these species of sharks, it is important to note that sharks do not constitute a major part of the marine environment in the Mediterranean. Studies have estimated that there are only about 8,000 to 12,000 individual specimens of these species of sharks inhabiting the Mediterranean Sea. This is a relatively small number when compared to other parts of the world, with the Pacific Ocean estimated to have nearly 250,000 specimens of shark.
The low number of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea may be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is overfishing, as these species are often a target for commercial fishermen who believe them to be valuable sources of food. Other possible causes could include pollution and habitat destruction, as well as the increasing temperatures of the waters, which can reduce the number of suitable habitats for these creatures.
Finland and Shark Presence
The presence of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea has been observed in Finland particularly around the Aland Islands in the eastern side of the sea. A study conducted by the University of Helsinki revealed that the Carcharhinids were the most commonly seen shark species around Aland Islands with a predominance of juveniles. The report also revealed that many of the sharks were sighted during summer months and that they often swim close to the surface.
The presence of the Carcharhinids indicates that the Mediterranean Sea may actually be a nursery ground for this species of shark, which can survive and prosper in the shallow waters of the sea. In addition, the presence of the Great white shark has also been reported in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. This species is believed to be native to the Mediterranean Sea and its presence is a source of both enthusiasm and worry for many divers and fisherman.
Environmental Effect of Sharks
In addition to providing a natural attraction for scuba divers and fishermen, the presence of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea is also important for the overall health of the environment. Sharks play an important role in the marine ecosystem as a top predator, helping to maintain the balance of other species in their particular environment.
By preying on smaller fish and other animals, they help to prevent population explosions of certain species which can have a negative impact on food chains and ecosystems. In addition, they also play a role in controlling the spread of parasites and diseases by helping to keep species numbers in check.
Without predators like the shark, these same populations would become too large and could place a lot of pressure on local resources, affecting the overall health of the ocean.
Political Stance & Conservation
In recent years, there has been some effort made by various governments in the Mediterranean to promote the conservation of shark populations. This has mainly been through the implementation of fishery regulations, which limit the number of catches that can be taken from the sea each year and create special protected areas for sharks.
In addition to this, there has been progress made at the international level with a number of conventions aimed at protecting sharks in the Mediterranean Sea being established. These conventions are primarily focused on the protection of endangered species, such as the Great white shark, which are particularly vulnerable in the sea given the relatively small population size.
Concerns of Sharks and Humans
The presence of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea can be a source of both excitement and concern for humans. On the one hand, they are a major attraction for scuba divers and fishermen who come to the sea hoping to spot one of these majestic creatures. On the other hand, they can also be a cause of fear and trepidation, as there have been a number of reports of shark attacks in the Mediterranean over the years.
Fortunately, the chances of being attacked by a shark in the Mediterranean Sea are extremely low. In fact, the most recent data shows that the rate of shark attacks in the Mediterranean is significantly lower than other parts of the world and, for most people, the chances of being attacked by a shark are much lower than being struck by lightning.
For those who are concerned about the safety of swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, it is important to remember that all precautionary measures should still be taken when entering the water. This includes avoiding swimming too far out to sea, avoiding areas where there is a large concentration of fish and staying clear of known areas of shark activity.
Carcharhinus Longimanus & Sea Temperature
While it is true that the presence of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea is not as big as in other regions of the world, the species that can be found in the sea are still an important part of the local ecosystem. In particular, the Carcharhinus longimanus, or long-finned Mako shark, is an important species in the Mediterranean Sea as it is known to be highly resilient to changes in sea temperature.
In addition to this, recent research has suggested that the Mako shark has evolved to be able to take advantage of climate change conditions and may be able to survive in increasing temperatures. This could be an important factor in preserving the species in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the overall biodiversity of the ocean, in the future.
Habitat Ruins and Fishing Restrictions
In order to protect the ecosystem of the Mediterranean Sea and the species of shark that live there, it is important that humans practice active conservation. This includes limiting the amount of fishing done in the sea, avoiding pollution and protecting habitats. In particular, it is important to limit the amount of damage done to the coral reefs and sea grass beds of the Mediterranean Sea, as these habitats serve as important spawning grounds and nurseries for sharks.
In addition to this, it is also important to put in place measures to enforce fishing regulations. This includes ensuring that fishermen are not allowed to catch already endangered species of sharks or catch species of sharks that are below the legal size limit.
These measures should be taken in order to ensure that the number of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea are not pushed to extinction and that the ecosystem of the sea remains healthy for both humans and creatures living in the deep.
