A massive white shark, believed to be the largest of its species ever observed in the Atlantic, is making its way toward the east coast of the United States, capturing the attention of both scientists and the public.
This male shark, named Contender, measures approximately 4.3 meters in length and weighs over 750 kilograms, with an estimated age of around 30 years.
As reported by nypost.com, Contender was initially spotted in January by a research team from OCEARCH, a nonprofit organization dedicated to studying large marine animals. The sighting occurred about 73 kilometers off the coasts of Florida and Georgia, near Jacksonville.
After a month of inactivity, since its satellite transmitter only activates when its dorsal fin emerges, the shark reappeared last week near Pamlico Sound in North Carolina.
The Northward Migration
Contender seems to have commenced its typical seasonal migration to the northern coasts of the United States and Canada, a journey that can span up to 1,700 kilometers.
This movement can reach lengths of approximately 1,700 miles.
According to Dr. Harley Newton, chief veterinarian at OCEARCH, great white sharks migrate from southern regions to the more food-abundant northern waters at this time of year.
“We frequently observe great white sharks passing by the Outer Banks before they continue north. The area appears to serve as a way station prior to their extended journey,” Dr. Newton noted.
How Contender is Being Monitored
Contender is monitored with a SPOT satellite tag affixed to its dorsal fin, which sends out GPS tracking signals when the shark surfaces. This data is shared on OCEARCH’s global shark tracker, providing essential information for both scientists and the public.
The tagging process was conducted meticulously: Contender was temporarily immobilized beside the research vessel, biological samples were collected, and then it was safely returned to its habitat without harm.
Benefits of Monitoring Sharks
Contender’s migration presents a valuable opportunity for scientific study, aiding in the formulation of improved conservation strategies for sharks, who are threatened by overfishing, climate change, and habitat loss.
As apex predators, great white sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by regulating prey populations.
The information gathered from monitoring Contender and other tagged sharks is enhancing our understanding of their behaviors, migration routes, and environmental needs, facilitating their conservation at an international level.
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