Maine is witnessing an increase in shark sightings off its coast. The sightings have increased patrols in the area, hoping to keep the public safe by informing them when they find a shark. A great white shark was among the shark species witnessed recently. Tragically, a woman passed away after a shark attack, an extremely rare occurrence in Maine. Citizens of Maine should call local authorities before heading to the beach with their families.
This increase in shark sightings should not invoke fear. Attacks are always a tradgedy, that woman suffered from a very rare shark attack and that should not and will not be overlooked. It is also true, however, that the marine ecosystem in Maine benefits from the increase in sharks. Sharks are indicators of a healthy ecosystem, and the return poses an opportunity for shark research. Sharkophile describes local shark species found in Maine should you encounter a shark yourself!
Local shark species of Maine
Basking shark: This species is the largest of the Gulf of Maine sharks, as well as the second-largest living fish, behind the whale shark. While enormous, the basking shark is a filter feeder and poses no threat. Basking sharks are one of only three sharks currently known that feed on plankton. These sharks are confused with great whites because of their size and the shape of their dorsal fin. Key differences include larger gills on the basking shark and its lack of large teeth.
Blue shark: Unlike the basking shark, the blue shark is considered abundant. It grows relatively quickly and reaches maturity in as little as four years. Its scientific name, Prionace glauca, translates to “blue saw” because of its color and the serrations on the edges of this shark’s teeth. Blue shark attacks are sporadic, and the species is pelagic, meaning it is rarely close to shore.
Porbeagle shark: Like many shark species, data on the physiological and behavioral ecology of porbeagles are lacking. However, researchers now believe that the Gulf of Maine may be a critical nursery for this pelagic shark species. The origins of the common name porbeagle are unclear but could be a mix of the words porpoise and beagle, an ode to this shark’s impressive hunting prowess.
Thresher shark: There has never been an unprovoked thresher shark attack on a human. The shark can reach an impressive maximum size of roughly 25 feet. Commonly called the common thresher, the fox shark, or the swivel tail, this shark uses its tail to stun schooling fishes and other prey. It is the only shark currently known not to hunt its prey with its mouth.
Spiny dogfish: The scientific name of this shark, Squalus acanthias, alludes to two venomous spines, one on the rear end of each dorsal fin. These sharks are tiny and pose no threat to humans.
Shortfin mako shark: This is currently the fastest shark known, capable of bursts of speed over 30 mph. Similar to the thresher shark, this is a pelagic species you are very unlikely to encounter at the beach. Instead, you are much more likely to see a mako shark in a local seafood market. Mako shark meat is conventional at restaurants in Maine.
Sand tiger shark: This shark is also named the grey nurse shark, and can reach a maximum length of 11 feet. These sharks are a coastal species; however, Sulikowski claims that the sharks are rare in the Gulf of Maine. The species is unique as it is currently the only shark that can inhale and store air in its stomach to maintain neutral buoyancy.
Great white shark: Currently, great white sharks are rare in the Gulf of Maine. However, some shark experts believe more sharks will move into the region as populations of prey species expand. Seal populations are on the rise in Maine, which can attract great whites in large numbers looking for a meal.
Of these eight species found off the coast of Maine, only the great white shark and sand tiger shark can hypothetically pose a threat. Theoretically, as they are both coastal species, they are the only sharks that you have a chance of encountering off the beach. Both species are rare in Maine but listen to local authorities who are working hard to spot sharks and give people a sense of comfort.
The original news break can be found here.