A shortfin mako shark, the fastest-swimming shark in the world, was caught on camera with an octopus catching a ride on its back off the coast of New Zealand. Researchers captured a video showing the orange-hued octopus clinging to the back of the shark as it swims.
The “sharktopus” was spotted in the Hauraki Gulf off the northern coast of New Zealand’s North Island during a December 2023 research trip. The researchers were surprised by this bizarre sight, as octopuses usually live on the ocean floor, while shortfin makos spend most of their time swimming near the surface.
The shark can reach speeds of up to 46 mph and is listed as endangered due to the high demand for its fins in the shark fin trade. The researchers watched the “sharktopus” for 10 minutes before leaving it to continue its journey, suggesting that the octopus was not bothered by the shark’s speed.
This unusual encounter highlights the mysteries of the ocean and the importance of conservation initiatives to protect species like the shortfin mako shark.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/sharks/octopus-spotted-riding-on-top-of-worlds-fastest-shark