During a recent expedition in the Hauraki Gulf off New Zealand, marine ecologist Rochelle Constantine observed a mako shark with an unusual orangey-brown mass on its head, raising concerns about the animal's condition.
To investigate further, technician Wednesday Davis deployed a drone, while colleague Esther Stuck recorded underwater footage with a camera. The team soon discovered that the mass was an octopus, later identified as a Maori octopus, perched atop the shark, leading them to nickname the phenomenon “sharktopus.”
The Maori octopus, which can grow to 6.5 feet and weigh around 26 pounds, was noted to occupy significant space on the shark’s head during the encounter in December 2023.
Dr. Constantine described the octopus as trying to remain inconspicuous by tucking its arms in. She mentioned that while the shark may not have seen the octopus, it likely sensed its presence through sensory organs known as lateral lines.
Typically, sharks and whales attract suckerfish that cling to them for protection and to clean parasites. However, despite the shark’s known behavior of leaping out of the water to dislodge irritating hitchhikers, this particular shark appeared unbothered by its unusual passenger.
Dr. Constantine noted the calm demeanor of both the shark and the octopus, suggesting that they coexisted peacefully during the observation. The shortfin mako, recognized as the fastest shark at speeds reaching 46 miles per hour, poses a question about the octopus's ability to hold on during rapid movement.
Regarding the fate of the octopus, Dr. Constantine expressed uncertainty, stating that it might have either fallen off or been consumed by the shark, but there remained a possibility that it could have safely landed on the seabed.
The encounter between the two species raises questions about how they found themselves together, given that Maori octopuses typically inhabit the seafloor while shortfin makos swim at greater depths. Dr. Constantine remarked on the improbability of their meeting.
Abigail McQuatters-Gollop, an associate professor in marine conservation, emphasized the mystery of their connection, highlighting the broader implications of such observations in understanding ocean life and the importance of its preservation.
She concluded by noting the continuous wonders of the natural environment and the necessity of protecting it for future generations.