Researchers were stunned when they discovered an octopus riding on an unlikely companion, a shortfin mako shark. A video shared on social media captured the rare sight of an orange Maori octopus clinging to one of the world’s fastest sharks. The shortfin mako can reach speeds of up to 50 km per hour, making the octopus’s choice of transport highly unusual.
Rare Encounter in New Zealand’s Waters
The footage, recorded in December 2023, was released this week. Scientists filmed the encounter in the Hauraki Gulf, off the northern coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Marine ecologist Rochelle Constantin from the University of Auckland was initially confused. “At first, I was like: ‘Is it a buoy? Is it entangled in fishing gear or had a big bite?’” she told The New York Times.
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Drone Captures the Stunning Footage
To get a better look, a technician launched a drone. The aerial view confirmed the octopus was firmly attached to the shark. This sighting was unusual because octopuses typically live on the seabed, where shortfin mako sharks rarely go.
Uncertain Fate of the ‘Sharktopus’
Scientists observed the duo for about 10 minutes before moving on. They remain unsure of what happened next. The shark could have eaten the octopus, or the eight-armed hitchhiker might have safely slipped back to the seabed. The shallow waters increased its chances of survival.
A Reminder of Ocean Wonders
Constantin reflected on the remarkable event. “The ‘sharktopus’ encounter is a reminder of the wonders of the ocean. One of the best things about being a marine scientist is that you never know what you might see next in the sea,” she said. She urged support for conservation efforts to protect marine life and ensure more such discoveries in the future.
